Venezuelan Government Initiates Release of Political Prisoners

Sat Jan 10 2026 00:45:19 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

In a significant move, the Venezuelan government has begun releasing political prisoners, with the initial batch including activists and foreign nationals. This decision arrives amidst heightened tensions in the country's political landscape, following the recent capture of President Nicolás Maduro.

The Venezuelan government announced the release of detainees labeled as political prisoners by human rights organizations, signaling a potential shift in the country's approach to political dissent. Following the capture of President Maduro, officials emphasized this action as a commitment to national unity and peace.

The Venezuelan government has begun releasing detainees considered political prisoners by human rights groups, in what officials described as a goodwill gesture.

Spain's foreign ministry confirmed that five of its nationals, including one dual national, were among those released, with rights activist Rocío San Miguel believed to be among them.

This move follows the recent capture of Venezuela's President Nicolás Maduro during a raid in the capital, Caracas, where he faces drug trafficking charges in New York.

Releasing political prisoners has been a longstanding demand from the US, particularly during times of heightened repression linked to elections or protests.

Jorge Rodríguez, head of Venezuela's National Assembly, announced on state television that a significant number would be released, though he did not specify exact numbers or identities.

While hundreds of political prisoners remain incarcerated, this initial batch includes personalities like San Miguel, who was arrested in February 2024 after being accused of plotting against Maduro.

Human rights organizations have expressed cautious optimism regarding these developments, calling for attention to the ongoing situation in other detention sites across the country.

Following international scrutiny and strong bipartisan calls from the US, Maduro's interim administration, led by Delcy Rodríguez, appears to be adopting a more conciliatory stance.

The notorious El Helicoide prison, infamous for its treatment of political prisoners, is expected to come under scrutiny as President Trump announced plans for its closure. Amid ongoing demands for the release of prisoners, including from opposition leader Maria Corina Machado, activists continue to challenge the legitimacy of the Maduro government.