Dinorah Figuera Returns to Venezuela for US-Backed Electoral Negotiations

Dinorah Figuera, former president of the 2015 National Assembly, returned to Venezuela on Thursday, June 18, 2026, following an invitation from the U.S. Department of State. Figuera intends to negotiate the creation of a credible National Electoral Council (CNE) through scheduled meetings with U.S. Chargé d’Affaires John Barrett and National Assembly President Jorge Rodríguez.

Figuera arrived in the country alongside deputy Ramón López. She stated she is accepting the U.S. government’s invitation to address challenges and find “congruences and coincidences” regarding electoral transparency. “We need a credible CNE where there is no doubt,” Figuera said, describing the complex process by adding, “the elephant must be eaten in little pieces.”

Why did Dinorah Figuera return to Venezuela?

Figuera returned to facilitate institutional discussions on electoral guarantees. She clarified that her current role is institutional rather than political, specifically when asked about prior meetings with Maria Corina Machado and the Unitary Platform. According to Figuera, her work focuses on ensuring any candidate who aspires to an electoral path can register with a transparent CNE supported by top advisors.

Did You Know? Dinorah Figuera previously served as the president of the National Assembly in 2015.

What is the role of the U.S. government in these negotiations?

The U.S. Department of State issued the invitation for Figuera to return. Other communicators report that the White House has initiated a “phase 3” strategy for Venezuela, which positions Figuera as a key negotiator for the restructuring of the CNE.

IS DINORAH FIGUERA RETURNING TO VENEZUELA? IS JORGE RODRÍGUEZ'S ASSEMBLY COMING TO AN END? 🇻🇪🔥

Journalist Carla Angola reported that current efforts aim to bridge the gap between the 2015 National Assembly and the officialist Parliament led by Jorge Rodríguez. Angola stated these moves seek to create political conditions to support an economic recovery driven by the Donald Trump administration and explore viable transition scenarios.

Expert Insight: Samantha Carter notes that by distinguishing “institutional” work from “political” platforms, Figuera may be attempting to create a neutral diplomatic channel. This separation could be a strategic move to lower barriers for dialogue with the officialist Parliament while maintaining U.S. backing.

What happens next in the diplomatic process?

Figuera is expected to hold meetings with John Barrett and Jorge Rodríguez. These discussions could center on the designation of a new National Electoral Council. If the reported “phase 3” strategy continues, Figuera may serve as the primary link between Washington’s objectives and the Venezuelan legislative bodies.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who invited Dinorah Figuera to return to Venezuela?
The U.S. Department of State extended the invitation to Figuera.

Which officials is Dinorah Figuera scheduled to meet?
She announced meetings with U.S. Chargé d’Affaires John Barrett and National Assembly President Jorge Rodríguez.

What is the main goal of Figuera’s current agenda?
Her primary objective is to promote the establishment of a credible and transparent National Electoral Council (CNE) to ensure electoral guarantees.

Do you believe institutional negotiations can resolve long-standing electoral disputes?