President Trump announced that Venezuela has begun releasing political prisoners following a U.S. military operation that captured Nicolás Maduro, with at least 18 individuals freed so far.
President Donald Trump declared on Saturday that Venezuela has initiated a significant release of political prisoners, attributing this development to recent U.S. military intervention. This announcement follows the American operation last week that resulted in the capture of Venezuelan dictator Nicolás Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores.
In a post on Truth Social, Trump stated, “Venezuela has started the process, in a BIG WAY, of releasing their political prisoners. Thank you! I hope those prisoners will remember how lucky they got that the USA came along and did what had to be done.” He also issued a caution to those being released, saying, “I HOPE THEY NEVER FORGET! If they do, it will not be good for them.”
The president’s remarks come just days after the United States launched Operation Absolute Resolve, a military strike aimed at capturing Maduro and Flores, who were subsequently transported to the U.S. to face federal drug trafficking charges.
In light of the military operation, Trump indicated that the U.S. plans to oversee Venezuela’s transition of power temporarily. He emphasized that American involvement would continue “until such time as a safe, proper and judicious transition” can occur, while also warning that U.S. forces are prepared to escalate their actions if necessary.
As of Saturday, reports indicated that at least 18 political prisoners had been released, although there is no comprehensive public list detailing all expected releases, according to Reuters.
Following their capture, Maduro and Flores were taken to New York to face charges in U.S. federal court. The Pentagon has stated that Operation Absolute Resolve involved over 150 aircraft and required months of planning.
Trump has reiterated that the U.S. intends to remain actively involved in Venezuela’s security, political transition, and the reconstruction of its oil infrastructure. The White House has not yet responded to requests for comment from Fox News Digital.
According to Reuters, the situation in Venezuela remains fluid as the U.S. continues to navigate its role in the country’s future.