The UK Government has announced it is upgrading diplomatic relations with Venezuela and intends to restore ambassador-level representation as ministers seek greater influence over the country's political transition.
Foreign Office minister Chris Elmore confirmed the change in a written statement to Parliament on 15 September, saying the UK and Venezuela had agreed their intention to upgrade diplomatic representation to ambassador level.
The Government said it will deepen engagement with Interim President Delcy Rodríguez and her government, while insisting the move does not change Britain's assessment of Venezuela's disputed recent elections or amount to an endorsement of any political party or government.
UK to restore ambassador-level representation
The British Embassy in Caracas is currently headed by Chargé d’Affaires ad Interim Colin Dick OBE rather than an ambassador.
Under the new approach, the UK intends to upgrade its representation to ambassador level as part of what ministers describe as pragmatic engagement designed to support a peaceful democratic transition.
Elmore said developments in Venezuela since 3 January had created an opportunity for the international community to support the restoration of democracy.
The UK is working with the United States and other international partners and says greater diplomatic engagement will give Britain more ability to influence developments on the ground.
Government backs Venezuelan-led political talks
The Government welcomed political talks between Jorge Rodríguez and Dinorah Figuera and said progress had already been made through that process.
Ministers say closer engagement will allow the UK to advocate more effectively for human rights and fundamental freedoms while supporting efforts towards free and fair elections.
The upgraded relationship is also intended to improve support for British nationals, promote opportunities for UK businesses and assist Venezuela's recovery and reconstruction following the earthquakes of 24 June.
The Government also linked the decision to regional stability and the security of British Overseas Territories in the Caribbean.
No change to UK assessment of disputed elections
The Foreign Office stressed that the diplomatic upgrade should not be interpreted as a reversal of Britain's position on Venezuela's recent electoral processes.
Elmore told Parliament that the decision “does not represent any change in the UK's assessment of recent electoral processes, including those held in 2024, nor does it signify endorsement of any party”.
The Government also reiterated the UK's longstanding diplomatic position that Britain recognises states rather than governments.
Following Venezuela's disputed 2024 presidential election, the UK joined international calls for detailed election results to be published and subsequently imposed sanctions on individuals associated with Nicolás Maduro's administration.
Part of wider international re-engagement
Ministers say the decision forms part of a broader international re-engagement with Venezuela, with other countries and multilateral institutions also restoring or upgrading relationships.
The Government argues that constructive but challenging engagement offers a better opportunity to influence Venezuela's political direction than maintaining more limited diplomatic contact.
Britain's stated objective remains a peaceful democratic transition reflecting the will of Venezuelans.
Ambassador has not yet been named
The announcement establishes the intention to restore ambassador-level relations but does not name the person who will take up the post.
UK ambassadors are formally appointed by the King on the recommendation of the Foreign Secretary, with the receiving country's agreement required before an appointment is completed.
The British Embassy in Caracas remains operational, although its public-facing embassy office is currently listed as temporarily closed to walk-in visitors.