The country has restored diplomatic relations with Brazil after its interruption during former Brazilian president Jair Bolsonaro's administration; the reestablishment of relations was promised by Brazilian President Lula during his 2022 campaign

The release of over 200 political prisoners after disputed elections by Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro is seen as a positive gesture toward US President-elect Donald Trump

President Nicolás Maduro described Donald Trump’s election victory as a "new beginning" for US-Venezuela relations, suggesting an opportunity for "win-win" cooperation despite past tensions, and emphasized his openness to foreign investment

Venezuelan opposition party Voluntad Popular has accused state security forces of the abduction and murder of Edwin Santos, a founding member and leader; the party holds the Maduro regime and intelligence agencies responsible

The Venezuelan government has canceled the passports of dozens of journalists and human rights activists, as part of a broader crackdown on opposition following President Nicolás Maduro’s disputed re-election