United States–Venezuela relations

United States–Venezuela relations refer to the bilateral diplomatic, political, economic, and security relationship between the two countries.

United States–Venezuela relations refer to the bilateral diplomatic, political, economic, and security relationship between the two countries. Relations were formally established in 1835 and were historically close, but they deteriorated sharply after the rise of Hugo Chávez and during the Nicolás Maduro era. In the 2020s, the relationship became highly confrontational amid sanctions, military pressure, and U.S. allegations about drug trafficking and authoritarianism.

History

The relationship began in the 19th century, when the United States recognized Venezuela in 1835 after Venezuela separated from Colombia. For much of the 20th century, ties were generally cooperative, especially because of oil and regional security interests.

Deterioration after 1999

Relations worsened after Hugo Chávez became president in 1999, as his government took a more anti-U.S. line and the United States raised concerns about democratic backsliding and human rights. Under Nicolás Maduro, disputes deepened over sanctions, governance, and foreign policy.

Economic and security issues

Oil has long shaped the bilateral relationship, alongside U.S. concerns about counternarcotics and counterterrorism cooperation. In recent years, sanctions and accusations of drug trafficking became central points of conflict.

2025–2026 escalation

Search results describe an intense escalation beginning in September 2025 with U.S. strikes on alleged drug-trafficking boats in the Caribbean, followed by reported U.S. military action in Venezuela in January 2026 and the capture of Nicolás Maduro and his wife. Later reporting in the search results says the two countries began initial steps toward restoring relations after Maduro’s ouster.