The US and Venezuela Restore Diplomatic Ties in Historic Thaw Following Maduro's Ouster
In a significant development marking the end of years of hostility, the United States and Venezuela have agreed to reestablish full diplomatic relations, the U.S. State Department announced on Thursday, March 5, 2026. This agreement represents a major shift in bilateral ties, which were severed in 2019 when then-President Nicolás Maduro broke relations after the U.S. recognized opposition leader Juan Guaidó as interim president. Embassies were closed, with U.S. diplomatic staff relocated to neighboring Colombia. The breakthrough follows the dramatic ouster of Maduro in January 2026, when U.S. forces conducted a military operation that captured him and his wife, Cilia Flores, leading to their transfer to the United States to face charges including narco-terrorism and drug trafficking conspiracies. Maduro, who had ruled since 2013, pleaded not guilty and remains in U.S. custody, with ongoing legal proceedings. Acting President Delcy Rodríguez—formerly Maduro's vice president—was swo...