Venezuela’s Acting President Promises Continued Prisoner Releases

Venezuela’s acting President, Delcy Rodríguez, announced on March 27, 2024, her commitment to continue the release of prisoners detained under former President Nicolás Maduro. This declaration marked Rodríguez’s first press conference following the ousting of Maduro by the United States earlier this month.

Rodríguez, who previously served as Maduro’s vice president and oversaw the country’s intelligence services and oil industry, was appointed interim president shortly after the U.S. intervention. During a press briefing at the presidential palace in Caracas, she emphasized that the process of releasing political prisoners initiated under Maduro “has not yet concluded.” She stated, “That process remains open,” suggesting a shift towards what she described as a “new political moment” for Venezuela.

The recent developments in Venezuela follow a period of increased tension between Maduro’s government and the U.S. In a surprising turn of events, President Donald Trump played a significant role in Maduro’s removal, asserting that the U.S. would take a leading position in shaping Venezuela’s future. Despite having imposed sanctions on Rodríguez for human rights violations during his presidency, Trump has sought her cooperation to secure U.S. control over Venezuelan oil sales.

Rodríguez’s position reflects a complex political landscape. While she is viewed as a former loyalist to Maduro, her current role demands a balancing act between maintaining power and addressing the international community’s calls for reform. Trump has reportedly warned Rodríguez that failure to comply with U.S. directives might lead to consequences “probably worse than Maduro,” who currently faces federal drug trafficking charges from a Brooklyn jail.

As Venezuela navigates these turbulent waters, Rodríguez’s approach to releasing prisoners could signal a broader attempt to mend relations with both domestic factions and international partners. The implications of these actions remain to be seen, but they highlight the ongoing struggle for political legitimacy and stability in a country long plagued by economic and social upheaval.

The situation in Venezuela continues to develop, and further updates are expected as the interim government seeks to redefine its position both at home and abroad.