Mauricio Claver-Carone, an influential private adviser on U.S. policy toward Venezuela, says he is no longer involved in overseeing the country's policy portfolio.

Trump's Unofficial Venezuela Adviser Steps Away From Key Policy Role

WASHINGTON — July 31, 2026

Mauricio Claver-Carone, a private adviser who played a major role in shaping U.S. policy toward Venezuela during President Donald Trump's administration, has said he is no longer involved with the country's policy portfolio. Although he did not hold an official government position, he had significant influence over diplomatic efforts, economic decisions, and business negotiations involving Venezuela.

Claver-Carone said his decision to step away was voluntary, while several people familiar with the matter claimed he had been pushed out in recent weeks. The U.S. State Department said he was not leaving any formal government position because he did not currently hold one, describing him as a private citizen who had provided expertise on regional issues.

Over recent months, Claver-Carone became one of the most influential figures involved in U.S. engagement with Venezuela following the January operation that resulted in the capture of former President Nicolás Maduro. During that period, the United States expanded its involvement in Venezuela's political and economic transition, including discussions over the country's energy industry, debt restructuring, and talks between political groups.

People familiar with the discussions said Claver-Carone played a leading role in arranging negotiations between Venezuela's government and opposition representatives, with talks scheduled for August 1. He also supported efforts related to restructuring Venezuela's estimated $200 billion national debt and participated in discussions over major oil-sector agreements involving U.S. companies.

In a statement, Claver-Carone said he had been pleased to advise the administration as a private citizen until government agencies and the reopened U.S. embassy team were fully prepared to carry out the president's Venezuela policy.

The State Department said suggestions that Claver-Carone had been removed from an official position were inaccurate. Officials described him as an experienced regional expert who currently has no formal role within the Trump administration.

His involvement, however, attracted criticism from some government officials, investors, and political allies. Critics questioned whether a private citizen overseeing a private investment fund should have such extensive influence over commercial opportunities involving Venezuela, particularly as U.S. companies explored investments in the country's oil industry.

Claver-Carone rejected concerns about conflicts of interest, saying neither he nor his investment fund has any financial stake in Venezuela.

Some administration allies also questioned his close contacts with Venezuelan business figures. Claver-Carone acknowledged working with businessman Alejandro Betancourt as an intermediary during discussions with Venezuela's government, saying Betancourt's knowledge of the oil sector helped facilitate communication between both sides. Betancourt has previously faced investigations related to corruption and money laundering allegations in several jurisdictions, including the United States, allegations he has denied.

Claver-Carone has long been involved in U.S. policy toward Latin America. During Trump's first administration, he helped shape sanctions against Venezuela and supported changes to U.S. policy toward Cuba. He also previously served as president of the Inter-American Development Bank before leaving that position and later briefly served as Trump's special envoy for Latin America before launching a private investment fund.

It remains uncertain whether Claver-Carone's departure will significantly change Washington's approach to Venezuela. Other senior U.S. officials continue to oversee policy, and there has been no indication of broader leadership changes within the administration's Venezuela team.