Students of the little league team for the Los Angeles de Baruta school practice in a park in Caracas. The economic meltdown led to an exodus of some 8 million Venezuelans, almost a third of the population. “So far we’ve seen President Trump very clearly endorse a policy of engagement with Venezuela,” said Geoff Ramsey, senior fellow with the Atlantic Council, a Washington-based research group. “The atmosphere across the country, but especially here in Caracas, is one of fear, distress, uncertainty,” said Martín. “I just hope it’s positive.”Special correspondent Mogollón reported from Caracas and Times staff writer McDonnell from Mexico City.