Venezuela Government and Opposition Schedule Caracas Transition Talks

The Venezuelan government and opposition announced Saturday that in-person political transition talks will begin next week in Caracas. Led by chief government negotiator Jorge Rodriguez and opposition leader Dinorah Figuera, the parties established a working agenda to address political rights, the reinforcement of democracy, and relief efforts following earthquakes in northern Venezuela that killed over 5,500 people.

These negotiations follow the January deposition of President Nicolas Maduro by United States forces. The transition process is backed by the United States and seeks to rebuild democratic institutions, which may include establishing a calendar for new elections. While U.S. President Donald Trump supports interim leader Delcy Rodriguez, some Chavistas remain distrustful of the process.

Opposition figure Maria Corina Machado was not invited to the meetings but stated she does not oppose the negotiations. The talks aim to stabilize the country's governance while managing the immediate humanitarian crisis caused by the recent seismic activity.