A total of 13 political prisoners were released on Sunday by Nicolás Maduro's regime, with notable figures such as former deputy Américo de Grazia and opposition leader Pedro Guanipa among them. The news was disclosed by opposition figures and elected deputies Henrique Capriles and Tomás Guanipa. Capriles announced, "In freedom: Víctor Jurado, Simón Vargas, Arelis Ojeda Escalante, Mayra Castro, Diana Berrío, Margarita Assenzo, Gorka Carnevalli, Américo de Grazia." Additionally, he specified that "house arrest was granted to: Nabil Maalouf, Valentín Gutiérrez Pineda, Rafael Ramírez, Pedro Guanipa, David Barroso."
"Today (Sunday) marks another step towards justice for those behind bars. Many families can once again embrace their loved ones. We are aware that many still remain imprisoned, and we will continue to fight for them all," he wrote on X. "Let there be no doubt: we will continue fighting for a country where no one is imprisoned for their beliefs. We've always said and maintain: we will talk to whomever necessary to ensure our Venezuela has no political prisoners!" he added.
Among those released is Ramírez Colina, the former mayor of Maracaibo, who was detained in October 2024, along with several of his former administration officials. Also released was Cabimas Mayor Nabil Maalouf, who had been arrested in December of the previous year. Pedro Guanipa, the brother of Tomás and former director of Maracaibo’s city hall, was also freed after being detained in September 2024 while attempting to travel to Colombia.
"Being a family member of political prisoners is another form of imprisonment. Life changes drastically. The constant uncertainty and anxiety are overwhelming. The daily effort of delivering food and medicine to two separate prisons is monumental," stated Tomás.
This week, President Donald Trump deployed a combat group in the Caribbean, consisting of three guided-missile destroyers (USS Sampson, USS Jason Dunham, and USS Gravely) and three amphibious ships (USS San Antonio, USS Iwo Jima, and USS Fort Lauderdale). Together, they carry 4,500 personnel, including an expeditionary force of 2,200 Marines, granting Washington the capability to conduct a landing on Venezuelan shores if deemed necessary.
While the Pentagon has not disclosed the specific mission, the White House claims the deployment targets “narcoterrorist” organizations identified in the region. Among these is the Cartel of the Suns, which U.S. prosecutors allege is led by Maduro and top officials in his regime. Washington has increased the bounty for the capture of the Chavista leader to 50 million dollars, an unprecedented amount in Latin America.
“Maduro is not a legitimate president; he is the fugitive head of a narcoterrorist cartel,” declared spokesperson Karoline Leavitt, emphasizing that Trump is prepared to employ “every tool of American power,” from sanctions to military force.
Key Questions About Political Prisoners in Venezuela
Why did Maduro release political prisoners?
The release of political prisoners by Maduro's regime appears to be a response to increased pressure from the United States, which has been critical of Venezuela's political climate and has measures in place against the regime.
What is the significance of the U.S. military deployment in the Caribbean?
The deployment of U.S. military forces in the Caribbean, including guided-missile destroyers and amphibious ships, is intended to confront narcoterrorist organizations in the region, reflecting Washington's readiness to take action if necessary.
Who are some of the prominent figures released from custody?
Among those released are Américo de Grazia, a former deputy, and Pedro Guanipa, an opposition leader. Ramírez Colina and Nabil Maalouf, both former mayors, were also released from detention.