Chile has restored diplomatic relations with Venezuela, ending a two-year rupture that began in 2024 when ties were severed with then-president Nicolas Maduro's administration. The decision comes after Maduro's ouster by US forces in January and follows Venezuela's withdrawal of its diplomatic staff from Chile and six other countries in July 2024. Chile's hard-right President Jose Antonio Kast stated, 'As of today, Chile and Venezuela are beginning a new phase.' He emphasized that the agreement will enable both countries to tackle shared challenges such as security, migration, and economic development.
Background and Context
The diplomatic rupture occurred after Venezuela's government ordered the withdrawal of its diplomatic staff from Chile and six other countries in July 2024. This action followed calls from these countries for a review of election results that declared Maduro victorious. Since Maduro's ouster, several countries have resumed relations with Caracas.
Implications for Chile
President Kast is actively seeking to expel approximately 330,000 undocumented individuals from Chile. The lack of diplomatic ties with Venezuela had posed significant obstacles to this objective. The resumption of diplomatic relations is expected to facilitate efforts to manage migration more effectively.
