Venezuela and the United States are taking initial steps toward re-establishing diplomatic relations, a significant shift following years of strained ties. On Friday, the Venezuelan government announced the start of a “process exploratorio de carácter diplomático” – an exploratory diplomatic process – with the goal of “restablecimiento de las misiones en ambos países,” or the re-establishment of diplomatic missions in both countries.
A Rapid Thaw in Relations
This move comes amid a series of developments following the January 3rd apprehension of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, by U.S. forces. Both are currently detained in the United States and awaiting trial on narcoterrorism charges. Following the arrests, a delegation of U.S. State Department officials arrived in Venezuela to conduct “evaluaciones técnicas y logísticas inherentes a la función diplomática” – technical and logistical assessments related to diplomatic functions.
In parallel, Venezuela is preparing to send a diplomatic delegation to the United States. The Department of State in Washington is evaluating a possible gradual reopening of the U.S. embassy in Caracas, which has been closed since 2019.
Economic Considerations
These diplomatic overtures coincide with reported economic negotiations. PDVSA, Venezuela’s state oil company, announced on Wednesday that it is in talks with the U.S. regarding the sale of petroleum. This follows a statement from President Trump that U.S. companies would “repair” Venezuela’s oil infrastructure and “hacer plata” – make money – there.
Further signaling a change, President Trump stated on Thursday that the Rodríguez government “está haciendo todo lo que sentimos que es necesario” – is doing everything we feel is necessary. That same day, Jorge Rodríguez, President of the Venezuelan National Assembly and Delcy Rodríguez’s brother, announced the release of “un número importante de presos venezolanos y extranjeros” – a significant number of Venezuelan and foreign prisoners.
What Might Happen Next
The arrival of U.S. diplomats in Venezuela could lead to further discussions regarding the conditions for a potential easing of sanctions. It is also possible that the U.S. will seek assurances regarding future political processes in Venezuela. However, a full restoration of diplomatic ties and the lifting of sanctions are contingent on the outcome of the legal proceedings against Maduro and Flores. Continued negotiations regarding oil sales could also be a key factor in shaping the future of U.S.-Venezuela relations.
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted the change in relations between the U.S. and Venezuela?
The capture of President Nicolás Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, by U.S. forces on January 3rd appears to have initiated a shift in diplomatic engagement, leading to exploratory talks and the potential re-establishment of diplomatic missions.
What is the current status of the U.S. embassy in Caracas?
The U.S. embassy in Caracas has been closed since March 2019. The Department of State is currently evaluating a possible gradual reopening.
What is Venezuela seeking from the United States?
According to the Venezuelan government, the diplomatic contacts aim to “abordar las consecuencias derivadas de la agresión y el secuestro del presidente de la República y la Primera Dama” – address the consequences of the aggression and the capture of the President and First Lady.
What role will oil play in the future of U.S.-Venezuela relations?
