Rubio pledges US support for Venezuela’s democratic transition

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio on Friday pledged Washington’s full support for Venezuela’s democratic transition following a meeting with Dinorah Figuera, president of the 2015 National Assembly, as political reconciliation talks prepare to enter a third round.

Rubio reaffirmed US support for efforts to secure political freedoms, electoral reforms, and lasting democratic institutions in Venezuela when he met Figuera in Washington.

“She has our 100% support,” Rubio told reporters, stressing that recovery must go beyond holding elections.

“This is a country that’s recovering from almost a quarter century of trauma,” he said, describing the process as Venezuela’s best opportunity in nearly a generation to establish an enduring democracy.

Rubio said achieving a peaceful transition would require participation from all sectors of society, patience, and sustained efforts to build institutions capable of ensuring stability, prosperity, and freedom.

The US State Department said the two discussed progress made during two rounds of reconciliation talks between representatives of the interim government and the 2015 National Assembly.

Achievements include the release of more than 1,200 political prisoners, restored access to over 70 previously blocked internet domains, and steps toward establishing an independent Supreme Court of Justice, it said.

Authorities have also launched efforts to reform the controversial 2017 Law Against Hatred, previously used to punish government critics, according to the US fact sheet.

The third round of talks is scheduled to begin on Oct. 14, with discussions expected to focus on judicial appointments and guarantees for political participation ahead of credible elections.

Rubio emphasized that elections alone would not be enough.

“More than just free and fair elections,” he said, Venezuela needs institutions that can sustain democracy for future generations.