The United States and Venezuela have agreed to re-establish diplomatic and consular relations, the State Department announced Thursday. This move signals a major shift in the historically adversarial relationship and aims to foster stability, economic recovery, and political reconciliation in Venezuela.
Relations were severed in 2019 by Venezuela's then-President Nicolás Maduro. The U.S. had previously supported opposition leader Juan Guaidó.
Acting Venezuelan President Delcy Rodriguez and U.S. Interior Secretary Doug Burgum at Miraflores Palace, Caracas, March 4, 2026.
The announcement follows recent visits by U.S. officials, including Interior Secretary Doug Burgum, focusing on sectors like mining and oil. These engagements are part of a phased plan to encourage foreign investment and promote a transition to a democratically elected government.
Venezuela's acting president, Delcy Rodríguez, expressed confidence that re-establishing ties will strengthen understanding and create mutually beneficial opportunities.