Envoy Reports Release of Six US Citizens in Venezuela

Trump’s envoy for special missions confirmed that an agreement was reached with President Maduro regarding the release of six Americans during his official visit to Caracas. Read Full Article at RT.com.

Envoy Reports Release of Six US Citizens in Venezuela
Trump's envoy for special missions stated that the release of six American prisoners from Venezuela was agreed upon during a meeting with President Maduro in Caracas.

According to Richard Grenell, who serves as Washington's envoy, the six Americans have now returned to the US. Grenell's meeting with Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro was unexpected, given the ongoing tensions between Washington and Caracas.

While the identities of the six individuals have not been disclosed, Grenell shared their photograph on X, showing them aboard the jet in light blue outfits attributed to the Venezuelan prison system. "We are wheels up and headed home with these six American citizens," Grenell noted, mentioning that the men had spoken to Trump to express their gratitude for their release.

President Trump celebrated the release on his Truth Social platform, thanking Grenell and his team for successfully bringing "six hostages home from Venezuela."

Venezuelan Vice President Delcy Rodriguez explained that the meeting took place at the request of the US government "in accordance with the principles of mutual respect." She highlighted that various topics were discussed, including migration, US sanctions, Americans accused of crimes in Venezuela, and "the integrity of the Venezuelan political system."

Venezuela reiterated its dedication to peace, dialogue, and sovereignty, emphasizing its desire to maintain open diplomatic communication with Washington.

Earlier this week, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt confirmed Grenell's mission to Venezuela, stating he was assigned to address the deportation of Venezuelan nationals in the US and to secure the return of American detainees from Venezuela. However, the White House clarified that Grenell's visit should not be interpreted as a recognition of Maduro's legitimacy.

The Trump administration recently revoked the extension of deportation protections for over 600,000 Venezuelans living in the US, which had been sustained under President Biden. Last month, Leavitt revealed the arrest of 538 illegal immigrant criminals in the US, including four members of the Tren de Aragua gang believed to have roots in Venezuela.

The US and Venezuela have a long history of antagonism, with Washington consistently advocating for regime change in the South American nation. In 2019, the US recognized Juan Guaido as the legitimate interim president, while supporting the opposition. In August 2024, the White House also acknowledged Edmundo Gonzalez as the winner of Venezuela's presidential election, challenging Maduro.

To apply pressure on Caracas, the US has enforced stringent economic sanctions that prevent American firms from engaging with individuals or entities associated with the Venezuelan government.

James del Carmen for TROIB News