U.S. Resumes Diplomacy in Venezuela

The United States has officially kicked off its diplomatic operations at the embassy in Caracas as of Monday, marking a return to the country after stepping back in 2019. This move aligns with the current administration’s ambitious strategy for Venezuela.

The State Department shared, “Today, we officially resume operations at the U.S. Embassy in Caracas, beginning a new chapter in our diplomatic presence in Venezuela.” This reopening is part of President Trump’s multi-phase plan, which aims to bolster direct engagement with the Venezuelan Transitional Government, civil society, and the private sector.

The embassy’s reopening was preceded by the arrival of U.S. Ambassador Laura F. Dogu, who has been serving as Chargé d’Affaires since January. The State Department noted, “Ambassador Dogu’s team is renovating the U.S. Embassy’s mission in Caracas in preparation for the full return of its staff and eventual resumption of consular operations as soon as possible.” However, it remains unclear when all public services will be restored.

This development happens as Delcy Rodríguez, the acting president, consolidates her influence following the capture of Nicolás Maduro in a U.S. operation in January. Rodríguez has received commendations from President Trump for efforts to open Venezuela’s oil sector to U.S. investment, though human rights organizations argue that the announced pardons for prisoners are still too limited.

Trump remarked during a cabinet meeting, “Cooperation with Venezuela went very well. Venezuela is doing better now than it has ever been in its history.” He characterized the situation as a “joint venture,” claiming that the United States is profiting significantly.

Since March 2019, U.S.-Venezuelan relations have been managed through the Venezuelan Affairs Division, located in Bogotá, Colombia. Ambassador Dogu expressed her enthusiasm in a translated post, saying she met with various U.S. investors in Caracas eager to participate in Venezuela’s economic revival. “The American private sector plays a key role in building a stable and prosperous Venezuela,” she stated.

Earlier this month, Dogu led a delegation that included Secretary of the Interior Doug Burgum and senior officials from the White House and Treasury to discuss establishing a legitimate mining sector. She emphasized that this could help implement the President’s three-phase plan to eliminate illegal activities, create jobs, and bring benefits to both nations.