Venezuelan Government Initiates Release of Political Prisoners Amidst U.S. Pressure

Sat Jan 10 2026 04:44:11 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

In a recent development, the Venezuelan government has begun releasing political prisoners, described as a key demand from human rights groups and the U.S. The initial releases include five Spanairds, and further announcements state that hundreds are to follow as part of a push for 'national unity'.

The Venezuelan government has announced the release of several political prisoners, a move linked to U.S. demands and heightened international scrutiny. Activists report this as a significant yet cautious step towards addressing human rights issues in Venezuela, highlighting a long history of political repression in the country.

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 said five of its nationals, including one dual national, had been released. Among them is thought to be rights activist Rocío San Miguel.

The move comes after the US seized Venezuela's President Nicolás Maduro in a lightning raid on the capital, Caracas, to face drug trafficking charges in New York.

The release of political prisoners in Venezuela has been a long-held US demand, especially during moments of heightened repression around elections or protests.

Jorge Rodríguez, the head of Venezuela's National Assembly and the brother of its interim president Delcy Rodríguez, announced on state television that 'a significant number' would be released immediately, without specifying the number or identity of prisoners being freed.

Hundreds of political prisoners are detained in Venezuelan prisons, with only a handful thought to have been released so far.

Rodríguez said the interim government was releasing them in the interest of 'national unity and peaceful coexistence'.

The release of San Miguel, an expert in security, defence and Venezuela's military, was confirmed. She was arrested at Maiquetia airport near Caracas in February 2024 on allegations of conspiracy and treason.

Venezuelan human rights organisations welcomed the news with caution. Despite being a key lieutenant of Maduro, Delcy Rodríguez's interim administration has appeared willing to co-operate with the US.

About 50 to 80 prisoners are believed to be held at the notorious El Helicoide prison, which garnered infamy for detaining alleged political opponents. Human rights groups have reported cases of torture within its walls. The announcement follows US President Donald Trump stating he had 'given orders to close that prison' post-Maduro's capture.

Opposition leader Maria Corina Machado, who has numerous allies imprisoned, has long demanded releases.

States respond cautiously, noting that the current government's approach may signal a shift in policy but ongoing human rights abuses remain a significant concern.

In the wake of the 2024 election turmoil, the international community remains watchful over the developments in Venezuela as calls for justice and political reform grow.