US Halts Further Military Action Against Venezuela Following Prisoner Releases

The United States has announced the suspension of additional military operations against Venezuela after the South American nation released a significant number of political prisoners, according to recent official statements.

On Thursday, Jorge Rodríguez, the speaker of Venezuela's parliament, disclosed that the government had begun the process of freeing numerous individuals classified as political detainees. Among those released were Enrique Márquez, a prominent opposition figure, and Biagio Pilieri, who played a notable role in María Corina Machado's 2024 presidential campaign. These actions have been verified by multiple independent sources, including international news agencies.

The recent prisoner releases are being interpreted as a sign that the Venezuelan government is seeking to deescalate tensions and move towards a peaceful resolution. This development prompted the US administration to reconsider its approach to the ongoing crisis in Venezuela. In an official message shared on social media platforms, President Donald Trump stated that plans for a second round of military strikes against Venezuela were being suspended in response to these measures.

Despite halting further attacks, the US has indicated that naval vessels will continue to operate in the region as a precautionary measure. This continued military presence is described as necessary to ensure security and maintain stability following recent events.

Earlier in January, US forces conducted airstrikes in and around the Venezuelan capital, Caracas, resulting in the arrest of the country's leader, Nicolás Maduro. According to reports from The New York Times, these actions led to the deaths of at least 40 individuals, although the full extent of the impact remains under review by international agencies.

President Trump, in an extensive interview with The New York Times, emphasized that his decisions regarding the use of military force are guided primarily by his personal ethical standards. He asserted that while the United States recognizes the importance of international law, he retains ultimate authority over the deployment of military assets in foreign territories. The president's remarks have generated significant debate among legal experts regarding the interpretation and application of international law in such situations.

In addition to Venezuelan nationals, the latest round of prisoner releases included five Spanish citizens. According to Spanish media, the group arrived safely in Madrid on Friday. Two of the individuals had been detained in 2024 while visiting the Venezuelan Amazon, where they were accused of espionage and alleged involvement in plots against President Maduro. The Spanish Foreign Ministry has confirmed their return and expressed relief at the outcome, highlighting the importance of diplomatic efforts in securing their release.

The international community continues to monitor the situation in Venezuela closely, with human rights organizations urging both sides to prioritize the protection of civilians and uphold commitments to peace and justice. Ongoing diplomatic negotiations are expected to play a critical role in shaping the next phase of relations between Venezuela, the United States, and other stakeholders in the region.