U.S. Department of State: The Week at State: March 27 - April 2, 2026

 

March 27 – April 2 On this Good Friday, the United States joins Christians around the world in reflecting on Christ’s sacrifice, the power of redemption, and the hope of the Resurrection.  Here’s what happened at State this week.  President Trump confirmed the strategic objectives of Operation Epic Fury are being met ahead of schedule. The United States formally resumed operations at the U.S. Embassy in Caracas, Venezuela. For the first time in more than 50 years, we are going to the moon. Secretary Rubio sent warm wishes to those who celebrate Passover. President Trump Provides an Update on Operation Epic Fury CAPTION: President Trump outlined the goals and successes of Operation Epic Fury in a White House address (White House/X) Speaking from the White House on April 1, President Trump reaffirmed that the United States will never allow Iran to possess nuclear weapons and that Operation Epic Fury is effective and successful.  “Our objectives are very simple and clear,” President Trump said. “We are systematically dismantling the regime’s ability to threaten America or reject power outside of their borders.” “I’m pleased to say that these core strategic objectives are nearing completion,” he added. Secretary Rubio congratulated the President on a “powerful speech” and underscored the United State’s goals of destroying Iran’s weapons factories, navy, air force, and “chances of ever having a nuclear weapon.” U.S. Reopens Embassy in Venezuela Caption: Chargé d’Affaires Laura F. Dogu and two service members raise the American flag at the U.S. Embassy in Caracas, Venezuela. (U.S. Embassy Caracas/X) The United States formally resumed operations at the U.S. Embassy in Caracas this week, marking a significant milestone in the President’s three-phase plan for Venezuela.  “Resuming operations at U.S. Embassy Caracas marks a new chapter in our diplomatic presence in Venezuela,” The Bureau of Western Hemisphere Affairs said on X. “This step strengthens our ability to engage directly with the Venezuelan interim government, support U.S. citizens, and advance efforts with civil society and the private sector." The diplomatic team is currently restoring the chancery building to prepare for a full return of personnel and the eventual resumption of consular services for the Venezuelan people. Artemis II: For All Humanity U.S. Consulate Perth’s Artemis II launch watch party in Yagan Square, Perth. (U.S. Consulate Perth/Facebook) On April 1, the United States successfully launched Artemis II, the first crewed mission to the moon since the Apollo program. This historic flight sends four astronauts on a 10-day journey to circle the moon and to test the Orion spacecraft’s life-support systems and pave the way for a human presence on the moon. President Trump, who during his first term formally established the Artemis II program to return humanity to the moon, celebrated the launch.  “Let me … congratulat[e] the team at NASA and our brave astronauts on the successful launch of Artemis II,” President Trump said. “It will be traveling further than any manned rocket has ever flown … It’s amazing.” United States Embassies and Consulates around the world hosted watch parties for this historic event.  The State Department supports NASA through global space diplomacy efforts. NASA and the State Department work together on the Artemis Accords, which now include 61 signatory nations. Most recently, these efforts led to the United States and New Zealand holding their second Space Dialogue on March 27 to enhance bilateral cooperation on commercial space ties, space security, and scientific research. Artemis III will launch in 2028 and take people to the moon’s surface. Celebrating Passover (State Dept.) Secretary Rubio marked the start of Passover, the Jewish holiday that commemorates the exodus from Egypt.  “As Jews around the world gather to celebrate Passover and remember God’s deliverance from slavery in Egypt, we continue to honor the ongoing resilience and hope of the Jewish people today,” Secretary Rubio said on X. News You May Have Missed We stand firmly with Panama following China’s actions against Panama-flagged vessels, reaffirming Panama’s sovereignty.  The State Department is modernizing the U.S. Foreign Service by reinstituting written examinations and overhauling orientation to prioritize American history and economic statecraft.  The United States and Ecuador signed an agreement to advance strategic civil nuclear cooperation and regional energy security. Under Secretary Helberg traveled to the United Kingdom, Belgium, the Netherlands, and France to advance partnerships in emerging technologies and quantum development. Note to Our Readers  We welcome feedback at EmailTeam@state.gov  Was this forwarded to you? Subscribe to The Week at State for weekly updates on important work, activities, and news straight from the State Department. Useful links Travel advisories and updates for U.S. Citizens Did you know that you can invite a State Department official to speak at your school, business, or organization? Learn about what we do through the firsthand experience of one of our representatives.  Read More at State.gov

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