Rubio calls Venezuela political prisoner release 'crucial step'

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio hailed the recent release of more than 130 political prisoners in Venezuela as a "crucial step" toward national reconciliation. He noted that 1,046 Venezuelans have been freed since January 3.

Rubio stated that the U.S. is closely monitoring the process, which is led by Venezuelans through face-to-face talks with interim authorities. He emphasized that Washington views this dialogue as key to advancing reconciliation and a political transition in Venezuela.

The Venezuelan government announced 131 releases on Friday, following reports from non-governmental organizations about dozens of political prisoners leaving detention centers. This development occurred two days after the first round of U.S.-promoted talks between the ruling party and the opposition concluded. According to a statement from the Minister of Communication, Miguel Ángel Pérez Pirela, the releases were ordered by the courts at the request of the Public Ministry, after a government program sought an evaluation of the cases.

Releases have taken place at prisons such as the National Institute for Women's Guidance (INOF) and Rodeo I, located near Caracas. Non-governmental organizations and opposition parties continue to demand the release of all political prisoners. Since Nicolás Maduro's apprehension in Caracas by the U.S. in January, hundreds of political prisoners have been released, some under an amnesty approved in February that also benefited thousands with restricted freedom.