Venezuelan Government Initiates Release of Political Prisoners Amid International Pressure

Sat Jan 10 2026 00:11:24 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

In a significant move, the Venezuelan government has started releasing political prisoners, amidst increasing calls for reform following the controversial capture of President Nicolás Maduro.

Venezuelan officials have initiated the release of detainees recognized as political prisoners by human rights organizations, a gesture termed as goodwill. Initially, five of those freed included rights activist Rocío San Miguel, following heightened scrutiny from international powers. While hundreds remain incarcerated, the government's action is viewed as a response to intense pressure from the United States and a potential shift towards cooperation with international entities.

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 reported that five of its nationals, including one dual national and rights activist Rocío San Miguel, had been released. This development follows a dramatic US-led seizure targeting Venezuela's President Nicolás Maduro, who faces drug trafficking charges in New York.

The decision to free political prisoners comes after continuous demands from the international community, particularly from the US, which has long emphasized the importance of such actions, particularly during tense periods surrounding elections or protests.

Jorge Rodríguez, head of Venezuela's National Assembly, announced on state television that a significant number of prisoners would be released without detailing specific numbers or identities. Hundreds of political prisoners currently remain detained across the country.

The release of San Miguel, who was arrested in February 2024, is notable; she was charged with treason, conspiracy, and terrorism after alleged involvement in a plot against Maduro's government. Human rights organizations have cautiously welcomed this news, with ongoing concerns regarding remaining detainees.

President Trump's administration has indicated a willingness to further address human rights issues in Venezuela following Maduro's capture, with targeted actions against notorious detention sites like the El Helicoide prison, known for allegations of torture and political repression. This announcement, however, should not distract attention from other detention sites still operational across the nation.

The Venezuelan political landscape remains tense, with opposition figures such as Maria Corina Machado calling for further releases and denouncing the government's history of suppressing dissent. As the situation continues to evolve, the international community remains watchful of Venezuela's future direction amidst ongoing struggles for reform.