US Raises Flag at Embassy in Venezuela for First Time Since 2019

The United States Embassy in Venezuela in Caracas raised the American flag on Saturday for the first time in seven years, marking a symbolic step in the restoration of diplomatic relations between United States and Venezuela.

The flag had not flown over the embassy since 2019, when diplomatic ties were severed and US diplomats withdrew from the country.

The ceremony comes amid a shift in relations following the January capture of former Venezuelan president Nicolás Maduro by US forces and the installation of acting president Delcy Rodríguez, who has been engaging Washington in renewed negotiations.

Although the flag has been restored, the embassy building is currently undergoing renovations, and officials have not announced a timeline for its full reopening.

US embassy staff said the flag was hoisted exactly seven years after it was lowered, underscoring the significance of the moment in the countries’ evolving relationship.

The ceremony drew attention from residents in Caracas, with some expressing optimism that the development could signal improved international engagement for Venezuela.

Caracas resident Luz Verónica López described the moment as encouraging, saying she hoped other countries would also restore their diplomatic presence in the country to help support progress and stronger global relations.

Another resident, Alessandro Di Benedetto, noted that many people gathered near the embassy were surprised and pleased to witness the flag being raised, describing it as a positive step forward.

Despite the gesture, criticism remains among sections of Venezuelan society and political circles over the United States’ role in Maduro’s removal from office and the expanding American influence in the country’s oil sector.