The earthquakes that struck Venezuela on June 24, 2026, have profoundly affected the political landscape and the relationship between the United States and Venezuela. These seismic events have not only caused significant destruction but have also altered the strategic priorities of the U.S. regarding its approach to Venezuela.

Prior to the earthquakes, there were already doubts about the effectiveness of the Trump administration's three-phase plan for Venezuela, which aimed at stabilization, recovery, and political transition. The natural disaster has interrupted this plan, leading to one of the worst humanitarian crises Venezuela has faced in over a century.

In the wake of the earthquakes, María Corina Machado, a key opposition figure and Nobel Peace Prize laureate, has expressed her intention to return to Venezuela. However, her efforts have been complicated by the U.S. administration's reluctance to allow her immediate return, reflecting a complex interplay of political maneuvering.

Machado's departure from Venezuela in late 2025 was facilitated by a risky military operation organized by the U.S. to collect her Nobel Prize in Oslo. Now, as she remains in exile, the U.S. has shown irritation at her desire to return, indicating a shift in how Washington views her role in the Venezuelan political landscape.

The recent earthquakes have also opened avenues for dialogue that were previously considered impossible. The U.S. has played a role in facilitating discussions between key Venezuelan political figures, including Jorge Rodríguez and Dinorah Figuera, which could lead to a more coordinated humanitarian response.

This dialogue comes at a time when the U.S. is reassessing its influence over Venezuela, especially as the country grapples with the aftermath of the earthquakes. The situation raises critical questions about the extent of U.S. involvement and the potential for future political developments in Venezuela.