Venezuela releases 131 political prisoners amid reconciliation talks

Venezuela's government has announced the release of 131 political prisoners, a move framed as a significant outcome of ongoing reconciliation talks between the administration and opposition factions. Communications Minister Miguel Ángel Pérez Pirela indicated that these individuals would be subject to "alternative measures to deprivation of liberty," though specifics were not provided, suggesting possibilities like house arrest.

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alternative measures to deprivation of liberty

Families gathered outside prisons, such as the one in Guatire, east of Caracas, to await and embrace their released loved ones. This development is seen as a tangible result of the current dialogue, which is supported by the United States.

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio described the releases as a "decisive step" for national reconciliation in the South American nation. He noted on X that since January 3, a total of 1,046 Venezuelans have been freed from detention. This date reportedly marks the capture of Nicolás Maduro during a controversial U.S. military operation in Caracas.

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decisive step

However, opposition politician Dinorah Figuera pointed out that not all political detainees have been freed. The NGO Foro Penal had earlier this week estimated the number of political prisoners at 391. Figuera, who leads the opposition's negotiating delegation, has been a strong advocate for these releases during the talks. The government and opposition concluded their first round of U.S.-backed negotiations on Wednesday, agreeing to initiate judicial reforms.

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1,046 Venezuelans have been freed from detention.