Venezuela Appoints Felix Plasencia to Lead Foreign Relations and Trade

Venezuela's interim president, Delcy Rodriguez, announced on Monday the appointment of Felix Plasencia to oversee the country's foreign relations and international trade efforts, marking a key leadership change in her administration.

Rodriguez confirmed the decision in a post on Telegram, saying Plasencia will take on the new role after serving as Venezuela's envoy to the United States since February. A longtime political ally of Rodriguez, Plasencia has held several senior government positions and is expected to play a central role in advancing the country's diplomatic and trade agenda abroad.

Before his assignment in Washington, Plasencia served as Venezuela's foreign minister under Nicolas Maduro. Maduro was captured by U.S. authorities in January, leading to significant political changes within the country's leadership.

As part of the cabinet reshuffle, current Foreign Minister Yvan Gil will leave his post and assume the role of science and technology minister, Rodriguez said. The transition reflects a broader effort to reorganize key government positions while strengthening Venezuela's international engagement and economic outreach.

Plasencia's experience in diplomacy and his previous tenure as foreign minister are expected to support the administration's efforts to expand foreign partnerships and improve trade relations. His recent diplomatic work in Washington also places him in a strategic position as Venezuela navigates complex international relations.

The latest appointments come as Rodriguez continues to reshape her administration following the political transition earlier this year. The leadership changes underscore the government's focus on diplomacy, foreign policy, and international commerce as it seeks to strengthen Venezuela's global presence.