U.S. Military Delegation Surprises Venezuela with Visit

Just weeks after the U.S. military apprehended former leader Nicolas Maduro, the commander of U.S. Southern Command made an unexpected trip to Venezuela, where he met with the acting president.

This surprise visit, which took place on Wednesday, marked the first time a U.S. military delegation had been to Venezuela since the January 3 raid aimed at reining in Maduro.

Marine Gen. Francis L. Donovan, leader of U.S. Southern Command, along with the chargé d’affaires for Venezuela, Ambassador Laura F. Dogou, and Joseph M. Humia, acting assistant secretary for homeland defense and the Americas, held discussions with interim authorities in Caracas. According to U.S. Southern Command, the meeting underscored the United States’ commitment to fostering a free, secure, and prosperous Venezuela.

The talks mainly revolved around the security climate and the need to implement Donald Trump’s policies. There was particular emphasis on stabilizing Venezuela and enhancing security across the Western Hemisphere.

Meanwhile, a U.S. Embassy post termed the day “historic,” indicating steps toward aligning Venezuela’s objectives with those of the United States.

Reports indicate that the U.S. delegation engaged with Interim President Delcy Rodríguez, Defense Minister Vladimir Padrino, and Interior Minister Diosdado Cabello, discussing cooperation on issues like drug trafficking, terrorism, and immigration.

In comments shared on X, Venezuelan Communications Minister Miguel Ángel Pérez described the meeting as one that reaffirmed diplomacy as a vital tool for resolving issues of mutual and regional interest.