# U.S.-Venezuela diplomatic and economic engagement

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/us-venezuela-diplomatic-and-economic-engagement
> Updated: 2026-09-01T23:16:06.000Z. Sources: 2. Developments: 2.

Developments in U.S.-Venezuela relations have progressed from specific regulatory exemptions to broader economic and transportation agreements.

In August 2026, the U.S. Department of Transportation granted National Airlines a two-year exemption to operate cargo and passenger flights between the United States and Venezuela. These operations were initially designated for humanitarian relief and the transport of essential supplies.

By September 2026, the scope of engagement expanded. The Venezuelan National Assembly endorsed a 25-year oil agreement with the United States intended to increase production by 1.5 million barrels per day. Additionally, American Airlines resumed daily flights between Miami and Caracas following the reopening of Simón Bolívar International Airport, which had been closed due to earthquakes in June.

## Timeline

### 2026-09-01: Venezuela sees major oil deal endorsement and flight resumption

Venezuela sees major shifts as the National Assembly backs a US-Venezuela oil deal, American Airlines resumes Caracas flights, and Unicef delivers one million vaccines to the country.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/venezuela-sees-major-oil-deal-endorsement-and-flight-resumption

### 2026-08-17: National Airlines receives U.S. authorization for flights to Venezuela

National Airlines has received a two-year U.S. Department of Transportation exemption to operate cargo and passenger flights between the United States and Venezuela, starting with immediate humanitarian relief.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/national-airlines-receives-us-authorization-for-flights-to-venezuela

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Cite as: U.S.-Venezuela diplomatic and economic engagement. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/us-venezuela-diplomatic-and-economic-engagement