Venezuela: Release of 500+ political prisoners must be first dialogue step, says opposition

Andrés Velásquez, a prominent leader of the political organization La Causa R, has publicly urged that the release of more than 500 individuals imprisoned for political reasons in Venezuela must be the absolute priority and the first agreement of the negotiation table set to begin August 1.

In a statement shared on his X account, the opposition leader addressed the imminent start of talks between representatives of the 2015 National Assembly and the Venezuelan Executive. He noted that this process is being facilitated by the U.S. government.

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All Venezuelans would view it favorably if the first agreement is to release them all.

Velásquez stressed the urgency of addressing the humanitarian situation of those detained in various centers across the country. "All Venezuelans would view it favorably if the first agreement is to release them all," he asserted, adding that such a significant measure "would be the best and most powerful message that this is starting seriously and with commitment."

As negotiations approach with what he termed the "tyrannical dictatorship established in Venezuela," under American tutelage, Velásquez reiterated the demand for the release of political prisoners. He concluded his plea by championing the slogan "Freedom for all political prisoners!" aiming to place human rights and democratic guarantees at the forefront of the delegations' agenda.

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would be the best and most powerful message that this is starting seriously and with commitment.