Venezuela begins releasing political prisoners

The Venezuelan government has started releasing detainees described as political prisoners by human rights groups, calling the move a gesture of goodwill.

Spain’s foreign ministry confirmed that five Spanish nationals, including one dual citizen, were freed. Among them is believed to be human rights activist Rocio San Miguel.

The move follows the arrest of President Nicolas Maduro by US forces in Caracas on Saturday to face drug trafficking charges in New York.

Announcing the decision on state television, National Assembly head Jorge Rodriguez said “a significant number” of detainees would be released immediately, citing “national unity and peaceful coexistence”.

Hundreds of political prisoners remain in custody, though only a small number are believed to have been released so far.

San Miguel, a security and defence analyst, was arrested at Maiquetia airport in February 2024. Authorities had accused her of treason, conspiracy and terrorism—charges denied by rights groups.

Venezuelan human rights organisations welcomed the releases cautiously, warning that attention should not be diverted from other detention centres still operating nationwide.

Opposition leader and Nobel Peace Prize laureate Maria Corina Machado reiterated calls for the release of all political detainees.

The government has long denied holding political prisoners, insisting those detained were arrested for criminal offences.