In a significant diplomatic step to discuss the transitional phase in Venezuela, acting Venezuelan President Delcy Rodríguez met on Tuesday with the new head of the US diplomatic mission, Laura Dogu, in Caracas. The meeting at the presidential palace marks the first official high-level contact since the ousting of former President Nicolás Maduro and represents a turning point in relations, which collapsed in 2019.
US diplomat Laura Dogu, who arrived in Caracas on Saturday, confirmed that she discussed with Rodríguez and Parliament Speaker Jorge Rodríguez the three stages proposed by US Secretary of State Marco Rubio for Venezuela’s future, which include: stability, economic recovery, and reconciliation.
In a parallel move, the Venezuelan government appointed former Foreign Minister Félix Plasencia as the head of its diplomatic mission in the United States. Foreign Minister Iván Gil emphasized the need to build a “productive agenda for peace and respect” between the two countries, calling for the lifting of US economic sanctions as part of diplomatic efforts.
Internal Appointments and Political Tensions
On the domestic front, opposition leader María Corina Machado expressed her willingness to meet with Rodríguez “if necessary” to establish a “timeline for the transitional phase,” but simultaneously described the interim government as “still the mafia.”
In a notable development, Rodríguez appointed Daniela Cabello, daughter of the powerful Interior Minister Diosdado Cabello, as Minister of Tourism. This appointment is seen as a potential sign of her father’s continued influence. Diosdado Cabello has been sanctioned by the United States, which has also offered a financial reward for his arrest, adding complexity to the political landscape and efforts to normalize relations.
Current diplomatic talks are focused on defining the features of the transitional phase in Venezuela, with the United States presenting its three-stage vision for achieving stability and recovery. The meeting between Delcy Rodríguez and Laura Dogu represents a first step toward rebuilding relations that have been strained since 2019 and opening direct channels of dialogue between the two nations.
Political developments in Caracas, including new government appointments and the opposition’s stance, reflect the challenges and complexities facing the transitional phase in Venezuela. While diplomatic efforts seek to chart a new course, internal dynamics and power balances remain decisive factors in shaping the country’s future.
Citing multiple media sources.
