CARACAS - The United States has begun reopening its diplomatic mission in Venezuela, a move that represents a significant thaw in bilateral relations after a seven-year break following a prolonged diplomatic rupture. Laura Farnsworth Dogu, the U.S. Chargé d’Affaires for Venezuela, arrived in Caracas on January 31, 2026, to officially reopen the United States diplomatic mission that had been closed since 2019.
Dogu’s arrival marks a clear step toward normalisation in ties between Washington and Caracas. In a message posted on social media, she said, “I have just arrived in Venezuela. My team and I are ready to work,” as she disembarked at Maiquetía International Airport. Representatives from the U.S. Embassy in Venezuela shared images of her arrival as well as welcoming remarks.
The restoration of the embassy comes against the backdrop of broader changes in Venezuelan politics. Diplomatic relations were severed in February 2019 after then-U.S. President Donald Trump publicly recognised opposition leader Juan Guaidó as interim president. Both nations closed their embassies at the time.
Recent political developments, including a partial release of political prisoners in Venezuela under an amnesty initiative, have helped pave the way for renewed dialogue. Venezuelan Foreign Minister Yván Gil described Dogu’s arrival as part of a joint agenda aimed at establishing a roadmap to address bilateral issues through diplomatic engagement, mutual respect and international law.
The decision to reopen the U.S. diplomatic mission follows exploratory visits by U.S. officials earlier this month to assess conditions for resuming formal functions. These efforts have coincided with shifts in Venezuela’s domestic political landscape and steps toward easing tensions with the United States.
The embassy’s return is expected to restore formal consular services, provide a direct channel for bilateral cooperation and facilitate communication on a range of issues that were dormant during the period of rupture. This development also follows the resumption of commercial air links between Venezuela and the United States after years of suspension.
Analysts view the reopening of the diplomatic mission as a key milestone in the gradual restoration of U.S.–Venezuela relations. While challenges remain, including entrenched political divisions in Caracas and lingering security concerns, the formal return of American diplomats signals a new chapter in regional diplomacy.