US Diplomat Laura Dogu Arrives in Venezuela, Signalling Return After 7 Years

• US top diplomat Laura Dogu arrived in Caracas, Venezuela, on Saturday, marking the beginning of restoring formal diplomatic presence after nearly seven years.
• This move follows approximately one month after a military operation led to the removal of then-Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro from power.
• Diplomatic relations between the US and Venezuela broke off in February 2019 when the Trump administration recognized opposition leader Juan Guaidó as interim president.
• Venezuelan Foreign Minister Yván Gil welcomed Dogu's arrival, emphasizing diplomatic dialogue and mutual respect for advancing relations.
• Venezuela recently released all detained US citizens, while the US continues to advocate for the release of all political prisoners.

Why It Matters: The US is re-establishing diplomatic presence in Venezuela after seven years, signaling a new chapter in relations.