politics

Trump admin. officials fly on first direct commercial flight between U.S. and Venezuela in 7 years

Updated on: April 30, 2026 / 6:01 PM EDT / CBS News

Trump admin. officials fly on first direct commercial flight between U.S. and Venezuela in 7 years

TL;DR

  • The first nonstop commercial flight between the U.S. and Venezuela in seven years departed from Miami for Caracas.
  • Trump administration officials, including Jarrod Agen, traveled on the flight to promote agreements between U.S. companies and Venezuela's state oil and mining companies.
  • Sanctions have been rolled back to encourage U.S. investment in Venezuela's oil sector following the removal of Nicolás Maduro.
  • Chevron CEO Mike Wirth noted progress in regulatory changes for hydrocarbon laws but stated more work is needed for desirable investment levels.
  • The U.S. has reestablished diplomatic presence and appointed John Barrett as chargé d'affaires in Caracas.
  • Elections in Venezuela are anticipated to occur in two to three years, with the Trump administration prioritizing stabilization over immediate democracy.
  • Opposition leader María Corina Machado aims to be president and awaits a secure timeline for transition before exiles return.