US removes Venezuela from drug trafficking blacklist after two decades

BOGOTA — In a significant diplomatic shift, the United States has removed Venezuela from its list of countries that have not demonstrably fought illegal drug trafficking, President Donald Trump announced on Wednesday. The delisting represents the first time in more than two decades that Caracas has been removed from the narcotics blacklist.

The decision reflects a change in approach by the Trump administration toward the South American nation, which has long been identified as a major transit point for cocaine and other illicit drugs destined for North American and European markets.

Trump indicated in his statement that the removal of Colombia from the same list could also be considered, suggesting a broader recalibration of US policy toward major drug-producing nations in the region. Colombia has historically been the world's largest cocaine producer.

The delisting carries diplomatic and potential trade implications for affected countries. Nations on the US drug trafficking blacklist face potential sanctions and restrictions on international aid and financing. The announcement comes as the Trump administration signals a willingness to reassess long-standing positions on regional security matters.