In a significant diplomatic development, Venezuela has released six American detainees following negotiations in Caracas between President Nicolás Maduro and Richard Grenell, a senior official from the Trump administration. This release underscores a notable moment in US-Venezuela relations.
Trump administration’s role in negotiations
The announcement regarding the release was made via social media by Donald Trump and Grenell, who shared a photograph of the freed individuals aboard his aircraft. Grenell revealed that the detainees had expressed their gratitude directly to President Trump through a phone call. He stated, “We are wheels up and headed home with these 6 American citizens. They just spoke to @realDonaldTrump and they couldn’t stop thanking him.”
Context of the negotiations
Prior to the release, the White House had issued a statement urging Venezuela to free what it termed “US hostages” and to accept the return of Venezuelan nationals deported by the US, warning of potential repercussions if these demands were not met. The released men were seen wearing light blue uniforms typical of the Venezuelan penitentiary system.
While the identities of the six detainees have not been disclosed, their release comes amid a complicated backdrop of US-Venezuela relations. In January, the Venezuelan government announced the capture of several individuals labeled as “mercenaries,” a group that included American citizens. Venezuelan state media reported that the meeting between Grenell and Maduro was conducted in a respectful manner.
Following the discussions, Maduro characterized the encounter as lacking a formal agenda but expressed a desire for a “new beginning in bilateral relations” with the US. It is important to note, however, that White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt clarified that Grenell’s visit should not be interpreted as an acknowledgment of Maduro’s legitimacy as the leader of Venezuela.
Maduro recently took the oath of office for a third term, following elections in July 2024 that have been widely contested and deemed illegitimate by both the opposition and the international community, including the United States.
“Six hostages home from Venezuela,” Trump declared in a separate post, highlighting the successful outcome of the negotiations.