Venezuela to Free 'Important Number' of Detainees in Bid for Peace
Venezuela announced the release of an 'important number' of detainees, including foreigners, in an effort to consolidate peace, according to Jorge Rodríguez, President of the Assembly12. The move comes less than a week after US forces captured former Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro23. However, the exact number of people being freed remains unclear2.
Background and Context
Human rights organizations estimate that Venezuela holds between 800 and 1,000 political prisoners, most of whom were detained for participating in protests following the disputed 2024 election, which many believe was stolen by Maduro2. Among the detainees is Argentine gendarme Nahuel Gallo, arrested on December 8, 2024, and accused by the Chavista regime of espionage and conspiracy4.
Key Developments
While many see the release of prisoners as a positive sign5, the move has been met with skepticism by some6. The NGO Foro Penal confirmed the release of at least eight political prisoners7, but the identities of those released have not yet been disclosed7. Other sources report that only nine have been confirmed freed so far89, with expectations that around 20 will be released in the coming days9.
The detainees cannot speak to the press or express themselves on social media, and there are reports of ongoing familial vigils taking place in front of the prisons8.
Implications and Reactions
The capture of Maduro by US forces has sparked reactions globally10111213. In the US, President Donald Trump has issued a warning to Venezuela's interim leader, Delcy Rodríguez, urging her to cooperate or face severe consequences13. The move has been both championed and criticized on the international stage11, with some accusing the US of exploiting Venezuela's oil wealth14.
In Argentina, the Libertarian Senator Patricia Bullrich supports what she describes as a process of democratization and freedom
in Venezuela, endorsing the US military intervention15.
Current Status
As the situation continues to unfold, it remains to be seen how many prisoners will be released and whether the move will lead to greater peace and stability in the region. Meanwhile, familial vigils continue outside prisons in Caracas, with over 800 political prisoners reportedly still held8.