Particle.news
Download on the App Store
4 ARTICLES
·
5h ago

U.S.-Backed Talks Open in Caracas to Map Venezuela’s Democratic Transition

U.S. officials say the negotiations aim to rebuild institutions to create a credible National Electoral Council that can underpin free multi-party elections.

Venezuela's National Assembly President Jorge Rodriguez reacts during a second discussion on a new mining law expected to open the sector to private and foreign investment, in Caracas, Venezuela March 19, 2026. REUTERS/Leonardo Fernandez Viloria
Venezuelan Parliament President Jorge Rodriguez (L) meets with former opposition lawmaker Dinorah Figuera at the National Assembly in Caracas on the day she returned to the country following eight years of exile
Former opposition lawmaker Dinorah Figuera returned to Venezuela after eight years in exile to assist with a US-backed effort to negotiate a 'credible' electoral authority

Overview

  • The first meeting took place Thursday between National Assembly leader Jorge Rodriguez and returning 2015 Assembly president Dinorah Figuera to discuss a formal roadmap for a democratic transition.
  • U.S. diplomats publicly welcomed the session and called for technical work on institutions, with a specific emphasis on forming a trustworthy National Electoral Council to run future votes.
  • The stated agenda includes rebuilding democratic bodies, restoring durable guarantees for political participation, and protecting civic freedoms needed for open campaigning and media access.
  • Dinorah Figuera returned from eight years in exile to engage in the talks, said she will hold follow-up meetings in the United States, and has distanced herself from rival opposition initiatives led by Maria Corina Machado.
  • These talks follow reports that Nicolás Maduro was captured in January and that Vice President Delcy Rodriguez is leading an interim government, and further sessions in Caracas are planned to translate the roadmap into technical reforms.