Decisive Leadership, Renewed Diplomacy

WASHINGTON, D.C.—The America First Policy Institute (AFPI) has released the following statement from Melissa Maldonado, director of the Western Hemisphere Initiative at AFPI, in response to the re-establishment of diplomatic relations between the United States and Venezuela:

“Under the strong, America First leadership of the Trump administration, diplomatic relations have been restored between the U.S. and Venezuela. This is a massive win and pivotal moment for the stability, strength and partnership we hope to see in our Hemisphere.

For decades, Maduro’s regime destabilized the region, spreading hostility, and narcoterrorism across the Americas. The drugs his regime trafficked were used not only to build up violent cartel networks, but also to kill our loved ones here in America.

Venezuela’s socialist economy collapsed and fueled one of the largest migration crises in modern history, negatively affecting many countries, including the United States. This reengagement with the United States will prevent China, Iran, and other hostile powers from exerting influence in our backyard.” 

The U.S. National Security Strategy, released in November 2025, reflects a long-overdue shift in how the United States addresses the Western Hemisphere—which was viewed and treated as an afterthought for decades. AFPI will continue to champion policies that promote greater involvement with our neighbors, as safeguarding the homeland begins with securing our own neighborhood.

Melissa Ford Maldonado is available for comment on this topic.