A U.S. State Department team arrived in Venezuela on Friday for the first time since the capture of former leader Nicolás Maduro, marking a major step toward restoring a U.S. diplomatic presence.
Officials said the delegation traveled to Caracas to assess security conditions and determine whether the U.S. embassy can reopen in phases.
The embassy has been closed since 2019, when diplomatic ties were cut during President Donald Trump’s first term.
The visit involved diplomatic and security personnel from the Venezuela Affairs Unit, which has operated out of Colombia.
A State Department official said that some career diplomats have volunteered to travel to Caracas and reopen the U.S. Embassy there, viewing it as an opportunity to chart a new path in U.S.-Venezuela relations. https://t.co/Vs1FuTBNRu
— The Washington Post (@washingtonpost) January 6, 2026
Secretary of State Marco Rubio has told lawmakers the administration is reviewing whether the embassy building remains viable and what repairs may be required.
While no formal meetings with Venezuela’s interim leadership are expected during this trip, discussions are ongoing.
Former officials cautioned that security remains the central concern, though a limited U.S. presence could be established quickly if conditions allow.
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TIPP Staff
TIPP Staff
TIPP Staff
