One of President Nicolás Maduro's closest aides has been extradited from Cape Verde to the United States, where he's been charged with money laundering.
The US Treasury says Alex Saab worked as a front man for Mr Maduro's regime.
The Venezuelan government suspended talks soon afterwards with the US-backed opposition.
The talks were to resolve a political crisis that has led to violence and the collapse of the economy.
The discussions had been due to resume this weekend in Mexico.
The US Treasury accuses Mr Saab - a Colombian-born businessman and Venezuelan envoy - of using his accounts in American banks to launder the proceeds of corruption.
Colombian President Ivan Duque tweeted that Mr Saab's extradition was "a triumph in the fight against drug trafficking, money laundering and corruption by the dictatorship of Nicolas Maduro".
Any word on the Citgo 6? Doesnt Ven have american hostages?
Weren't they just paid for hitmen. Willing to even kill Americans if paid. I figured Trump sent them there to be captured. They supposably tweeted or Snapchatted their voyage. Yes like idiots, but who doesn't? Sorry no link or proof. Just of memory.
May your grass become greener and/or your land flourish.
I personally know a daughter of one of the citgo 6 they are still trying to get them home
The Citgo 6 were transferred from prison to house arrest in April but were sent back to prison the day after Saab was extradited. Five of the 6 have double citizenship, US/Venezuela, the other is a legal permanent resident.