Venezuela rebuilds after US strikes, regional leaders urge peaceful resolution
(VOVWORLD) - Venezuela has launched reconstruction efforts in areas hit by US airstrikes earlier this month, as regional leaders urge respect for international law and a peaceful resolution to the crisis.
 People look for personal belongings through the rubble of a building, following US strikes on Venezuela, in Catia La Mar, Venezuela, January 4, 2026. (Photo: REUTERS/Gaby Oraa) |
Acting President Delcy Rodriguez said at a meeting on Thursday that Caracas has begun a program aimed at assisting communities and rebuilding sites struck last week. She said Venezuela is slowly recovering and the government will maintain a state presence in the affected areas.
Other governments have continued to voice concern. Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva spoke by phone with Colombian President Gustavo Petro on Thursday, and both men agreed the situation in Venezuela should be addressed through peaceful negotiations with respect for the will of the Venezuelan people.
Colombia said President Petro will soon host the Venezuelan interim leader in Bogotá on an official visit aimed at supporting peace building efforts and encouraging a political solution to the crisis.
President Lula shared a separate phone call with Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum, during which both leaders condemned the US strikes and said they were willing to work with Caracas to promote peace, dialogue, and stability in the region.
Lula also discussed the situation in Venezuela in a call with Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney.