New U.S. Diplomat Arrives in Venezuela to Support Democracy

John M. Barrett, an experienced U.S. diplomat, arrived in Caracas on Thursday to take over as the head of the U.S. Embassy in Venezuela. This move is part of President Donald Trump’s strategy aimed at restoring democracy in the country.

Barrett, who has had a long career in diplomacy, was named as the new Chargé d’Affaires at the U.S. Embassy in Caracas, succeeding Laura Dogu. She had recently held the position and was responsible for reopening the embassy, which had been closed for seven years due to the severed diplomatic ties after Nicolás Maduro’s regime took over in early 2019.

Following Maduro’s capture on January 3, authorized by Trump, the U.S. presented a three-part plan focused on stabilizing the nation, recovering its economy, and facilitating a political transition. Delcy Rodríguez, the acting president of Venezuela’s socialist government, has shown willingness to collaborate with the U.S. since Maduro’s removal.

In a video message shared by the U.S. Embassy, Barrett introduced himself, stating, “The relationship between the United States and Venezuela will shape the future of our hemisphere.” He emphasized his commitment to continuing the implementation of the three-phase plan as outlined by Trump and other officials.

According to Venezuelan media, Barrett met with Oliver Blanco, the deputy foreign minister for Europe and North America, soon after his arrival. Blanco welcomed Barrett and expressed his desire to keep open lines of communication between the two nations.

Rodríguez spoke at an official event later that evening, acknowledging Barrett’s arrival and reinforcing the idea of a cooperative agenda between the U.S. and Venezuela. She reiterated calls for an end to U.S. sanctions, framing it as essential for fostering mutual benefits.

With diplomatic relations restored after Maduro’s arrest, notable figures from the U.S. government, including the Energy Secretary and a senior official from the Department of Energy, engaged in discussions around improving cooperation. This shift has prompted Venezuelan socialists to modify strict laws governing hydrocarbons and mining to attract U.S. investments, addressing years of decline in these sectors.

Additionally, Chevron recently finalized an agreement to expand its operations in Venezuela, particularly in the Orinoco Belt, home to significant reserves of heavy crude oil.

During a ceremony in April, Rodríguez expressed her gratitude to Trump and Secretary of State Marco Rubio for their efforts to mend U.S.-Venezuela relations, mentioning the importance of restoring ties with the International Monetary Fund, which had suffered under previous administrations.

On the same day, Michael Kozak, a senior State Department official, indicated that the first phase of Trump’s plan was complete and that the second phase would focus on economic recovery and political reconciliation, highlighting the U.S.’s influence over Venezuela’s oil revenues.

The State Department further noted Barrett’s extensive background, which includes roles like Economic Affairs Counselor at the U.S. Embassy in Peru and other diplomatic positions across Central America.