Following a meeting in Caracas focused partly on the release of detained Americans, President Trump’s special envoy, Richard Grenell, announced Friday night his return to the U.S. with six freed Americans. He tweeted that the six had spoken with President Trump and expressed their gratitude.
While Grenell didn’t name the six men, four were reportedly wearing Venezuelan prison uniforms. Reports indicate at least nine Americans have been held in Venezuela, with Venezuelan officials alleging terrorism or mercenary activities.
Earlier Friday, U.S. Special Envoy for Latin America, Mauricio Claver-Carone, stated the need for the immediate and unconditional release of American hostages, emphasizing that this wasn’t a quid pro quo or negotiation.
The Venezuelan government’s statement described the Maduro-Grenell meeting at the presidential palace as respectful, covering various topics including migration, sanctions, and detained Americans.
Maduro’s recent inauguration for a third term isn’t recognized by the U.S., which supports the opposition candidate who, they believe, won the election decisively. President Trump reaffirmed his opposition to Maduro and Venezuela’s treatment of both Americans and its own people.
Grenell’s visit also aimed to secure the return of approximately 400 Venezuelan military personnel, whose group Venezuelan Attorney General Tarek Saab stated was disbanded in 2023. Claver-Carone insisted their repatriation must be unconditional and non-negotiable.