US and Venezuela Restore Diplomatic Relations

The United States and Venezuela announced on March 5, 2026, the restoration of diplomatic and consular relations, marking a significant shift following a U.S. military operation two months earlier that led to the capture of then-President Nicolás Maduro and First Lady Cilia Flores. The move came amid efforts to stabilize the South American nation, as evidenced by a new U.S. license authorizing limited dealings with Venezuela's state-owned gold mining company, Minerven.

In simultaneous statements, officials from both governments outlined their intentions for the renewed ties. Venezuelan Foreign Minister Yván Gil shared a statement emphasizing a "new stage of constructive dialogue based on mutual respect, the sovereign equality of states, and cooperation between our peoples." It expressed hope that the relations would contribute to the "social and economic wellbeing of the Venezuelan people" and referenced historical aspirations for friendship, quoting 19th-century liberator Simón Bolívar.

The U.S. statement, issued by the State Department, described the agreement as a step to "facilitate our joint efforts to promote stability, support economic recovery, and advance political...