Richard Grenell, President Donald Trump’s envoy, unexpectedly returned to the United States with six American citizens after meeting with Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro in Caracas. The main goal of the visit was to secure the release of detained Americans in Venezuela. The individuals were dressed in light blue Venezuelan prison outfits and expressed gratitude towards Trump. Maduro’s government has accused most of the detainees of terrorism and being mercenaries but U.S. officials have denied these claims.
There are conflicting reports on the exact number of Americans being held by Venezuela, with officials mentioning at least nine. The Venezuelan government often accuses opposition members and foreign detainees of conspiring with the U.S. and committing acts of terrorism. Earlier negotiations in late 2023 led to the release of 10 Americans, but the U.S. also released a close ally of Maduro as part of the process.
Venezuelan officials stated that the meeting with Grenell was positive and discussed potential agreements on migration, sanctions, and the Tren de Aragua gang. The U.S. is focusing on ensuring the return of 400 gang members in U.S. custody to Venezuela, a deal that is considered non-negotiable. Despite the meeting, the U.S. does not officially recognize Maduro as the legitimate leader of Venezuela.
Bilateral issues such as oil sanctions, elections, and economic cooperation were also brought up in the meeting. The relationship between the U.S. and Venezuela has been strained in recent years, with both countries imposing sanctions and facing accusations of coup-plotting. Chevron, a U.S. oil major, is seeking to protect its license allowing operations in Venezuela, amidst changing policies and statements from the Biden administration.
