Caracas

Caracas is the capital of Venezuela and the location of the US Embassy, which recently reopened after a seven-year closure. This reopening signifies a major shift in US-Venezuelan relations following the capture of former President Nicolás Maduro and the installation of an interim government led by Delcy Rodriguez. The US has agreed to re-establish diplomatic and consular relations with Venezuela, aiming to promote stability and economic cooperation, including mining development. However, a UN fact-finding mission warns of continued human rights abuses under the interim administration, indicating that the 'machinery' of repression persists. The US's renewed interest in Venezuela is also linked to potential access to its resources, particularly oil. Simultaneously, the Trump administration is escalating pressure on Cuba, hinting at a possible 'friendly takeover,' further complicating the regional political landscape.