Following alleged talks with U.S. officials, the Venezuelan government announced the release of over 400 political prisoners, a move intended to ease international pressure and demonstrate a commitment to human rights improvements[[1]]. However, independent organizations and opposition figures are questioning the accuracy of the government’s claims, reporting substantially lower numbers of released detainees, with estimates ranging from 60 to 116[[1]], [[2]]. The discrepancies raise concerns about the transparency of the releases and the ongoing plight of Venezuela’s estimated 800 to 1,200 political prisoners[[1]].
Venezuelan authorities have begun releasing a number of political prisoners, though the number confirmed by independent organizations falls significantly short of the government’s claims. The releases come amid ongoing diplomatic efforts and international pressure to address the country’s human rights situation.
The Venezuelan government announced it had released “more than 400” political prisoners, but several non-governmental organizations (NGOs) have disputed that figure. According to reports, the actual number is considerably lower.
María Corina Machado, a prominent opposition figure, stated that the regime had freed fewer than half of the 116 political prisoners it had previously announced would be released. She made the claim in a live broadcast, raising concerns about the scope and sincerity of the government’s actions.
Among those released is an Argentine-Israeli national, 72, who had been detained in El Rodeo I. Details surrounding his case and release remain limited.
The releases are generating internal political tension within Venezuela, particularly between Delcy Rodríguez and Diosdado Cabello, according to reports. The nature of this tension remains unclear, but it suggests divisions within the ruling administration regarding the prisoner releases.
The development underscores the complex political landscape in Venezuela and the challenges facing efforts to achieve a comprehensive resolution to the country’s ongoing crisis. The announcement could influence future diplomatic talks and international assessments of the Venezuelan government’s commitment to human rights.
