Venezuelan Government Initiates Release of Political Prisoners

Sat Jan 10 2026 03:12:01 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

In a surprising move, the Venezuelan government has started releasing political prisoners, a decision viewed as a gesture of goodwill amidst international pressure. This decision comes after President Nicolás Maduro's recent capture and heightened scrutiny on human rights violations.

The Venezuelan government is releasing political prisoners in what it claims is an effort for national unity. Initially, several detainees have been set free, including a prominent rights activist. The move has been welcomed with cautious optimism by human rights organizations, who see it as a response to ongoing international pressure.

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

Spain's foreign ministry confirmed that five of its nationals, including one dual national, had been released, with rights activist Rocío San Miguel among them.

This release follows a dramatic event wherein the US captured President Nicolás Maduro in Caracas on charges of drug trafficking.

The US has long demanded the release of political prisoners, particularly during heightened repression surrounding elections or protests.

Jorge Rodríguez, head of Venezuela's National Assembly, announced on state television that a significant number would be released immediately, but did not specify how many or who they were.

Human rights organizations welcomed the news with caution, noting that hundreds of political prisoners remain in Venezuela's jails. Rodríguez stated the interim government is releasing them for the sake of national unity and peaceful coexistence. San Miguel was arrested at Maiquetia airport in February 2024 and faced serious charges.

The recent development could signal a shift in the Venezuelan government’s approach amidst international scrutiny, especially as the US also targets notorious detention centers like El Helicoide, known for its abuses.

Opposition leader Maria Corina Machado, who has close allies still imprisoned, continues to advocate for further releases.