Venezuela Roundup: Repatriation Flights, Investment Appeals, and Detention of American Surfer

The Venezuelan government is resuming repatriation flights for deported migrants and is appealing for foreign investment in the oil sector amidst impending U.S. sanctions. Additionally, an American kitesurfer has been detained by Venezuelan military forces. Meanwhile, the Venezuelan-American community is rallying in Washington, D.C. against engagement policies with the Maduro regime.

The Venezuelan government has announced the resumption of repatriation flights for migrants deported from the United States as part of the “Return to the Homeland” Plan. This follows a renewed bilateral agreement established with U.S. Special Envoy Richard Grenell. National Assembly Speaker Jorge Rodríguez highlighted that previous delays were largely due to actions taken by Washington, such as the revocation of Chevron’s operating license by former President Donald Trump.

In a related development, contractors associated with Chevron continue to operate in Venezuela, defying the Trump administration’s ultimatum meant to halt U.S. business activities. This situation underscores the challenges of enforcing sanctions, particularly in light of changing geopolitical dynamics and energy demands.

Amidst impending U.S. sanctions aimed at the oil sector, President Nicolás Maduro is appealing for foreign investment. During a recent televised meeting, he expressed Venezuela’s openness to international partnerships in oil, gas, petrochemicals, and refining. Maduro urged global investors to participate, despite obstacles such as underinvestment and U.S. sanctions, which have deterred even non-U.S. companies from entering the market.

Meanwhile, an American kitesurfer, Lucas Hunter, has been detained for several months after inadvertently crossing into Venezuela while enjoying a motorcycle trip along Colombia’s northern coast. He sent a distressing voice note to his sister, revealing his capture by Venezuelan military forces. His sister, Sophie, who lives in Switzerland, expressed her concern upon receiving the message.

In Washington, D.C., members of the Venezuelan-American community are mobilizing to lobby against any engagement with Maduro’s regime. The civic organization IVAC is spearheading efforts to organize a caravan to the capital with the objective of raising awareness about the perceived threats posed by Maduro’s government to U.S. national security.

Venezuela is witnessing significant developments including the resumption of repatriation flights for migrants, a call for foreign investments in the oil sector, and the prolonged detention of an American kitesurfer. The Venezuelan government continues to navigate complex geopolitical challenges and economic hardships, while the U.S. sanctions regime presents ongoing barriers. Local efforts to influence U.S. policy towards the Maduro administration are also intensifying, as the Venezuelan-American community advocates for a tougher stance against the regime.

Original Source: globalsouthworld.com