In a significant diplomatic development, U.S. Ambassador Laura Dogu arrived in Caracas on Saturday to reestablish American diplomatic presence in Venezuela following a seven-year rupture in bilateral relations. The reopening marks a pivotal moment in U.S.-Venezuela relations, coming approximately one month after a U.S.-backed military intervention resulted in the ousting of former Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro.
Ambassador Dogu announced her readiness to commence operations through an official message posted on the U.S. Embassy in Venezuela’s X account, which simultaneously released photographs documenting her arrival at Maiquetia International Airport. “My team and I are ready to work,” Dogu declared, signaling Washington’s commitment to reengaging with the South American nation.
The diplomatic breakdown originated in February 2019 when Maduro severed relations with the United States after then-President Donald Trump publicly endorsed opposition lawmaker Juan Guaidó’s claim to interim presidential authority. This political crisis led to the mutual closure of embassy facilities in both countries.
Venezuelan Interior Minister Diosdado Cabello, a prominent political figure and Maduro loyalist, previously indicated that the embassy reopening would enable Venezuelan authorities to monitor the treatment of the deposed leader, who remains detained in U.S. custody.
Foreign Minister Yván Gil characterized the diplomatic reengagement as part of a structured bilateral agenda aimed at resolving outstanding differences through diplomatic dialogue. In a Telegram message, Gil emphasized the process would be conducted “on a foundation of mutual respect and international law.”
The ambassador’s arrival coincided with interim President Delcy Rodríguez’s announcement of an amnesty bill designed to release political prisoners—a key concession to opposition demands. Dogu brings extensive regional experience to her new post, having previously served as U.S. ambassador to both Nicaragua and Honduras.