A fragile freedom for Venezuela’s released political prisoners
Venezuela’s new government has released hundreds of political detainees. But does that mean freedom?

Venezuela’s new government has released hundreds of political detainees. But does that mean freedom?





![A screengrab of a video posted by US Secretary of War Pete Hegseth on October 29, 2025, reportedly showing the aftermath of a strike on an alleged drug smuggling vessel in the Western Pacific Ocean. [Screengrab / US Defense Department]](https://www.aljazeera.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Screenshot-2025-10-30-at-09.31.30-1761787921.png?resize=770%2C513&quality=80)



The US military says one person survived the strike on the vessel and that the coastguard has been notified.
Pentagon says US will enforce Trump-ordered blockade against South American country even ‘halfway around the world’.
Public prosecutor says Guanipa placed under house arrest, as opposition figure’s son, allies decry ‘kidnapping’.
Machado ally says ‘there’s a lot to talk about regarding the present and future of Venezuela’ after release.
Jorge Rodriguez told family members of Venezuelan political prisoners that they would be freed on February 13.
As Venezuela enters a new political phase, we look at how the government keeps functioning.
The bill would provide clemency for opposition members and protesters who have been charged with crimes under Maduro.
US President Donald Trump’s plan to sell Venezuelan oil to India is neat, but may be operationally messy, analysts say.
Pro-Maduro protesters hold banners calling on US to release ‘kidnapped’ President and First Lady Cilia Flores.
In January, the US removed Nicolas Maduro from power. But Venezuelans in exile say it is still too dangerous to return.