Interim president Delcy Rodriguez promised on Monday that Venezuelans in exile would be welcomed back following a new amnesty law passed after the US ouster of Nicolas Maduro, as authorities released at least 30 prisoners from the Rodeo I penitentiary east of Caracas.
‘Reconciliation’ Aim
Rodriguez stated, “I am telling you: the doors of Venezuela, the arms of the Venezuelan people are open to those who want to return in this process of healing from hatred.”
Seven million Venezuelans have fled their homeland due to the political and economic crisis, and many opposition figures live in exile.
The country’s legislature unanimously adopted the amnesty law last Thursday, with Rodriguez hailing it as a step toward “a more democratic, fairer, freer Venezuela.”
Jorge Rodriguez, parliament chief and the interim president’s brother, said 1,500 people have applied for the amnesty, which covers charges used to imprison dissidents during 27 years of hardline socialist rule.
Approximately 500 people have been released since January, though some 600 political prisoners remain in detention throughout the country, according to Foro Penal, an NGO dedicated to the defence of political prisoners.
Thaw with West
Venezuela’s Foreign Minister Yvan Gil Pinto demanded the immediate release of Maduro, who is currently in custody in New York along with his wife, awaiting trial on drug trafficking charges.
Maduro has pleaded not guilty and declared himself a “prisoner of war.”
Gil told the UN Human Rights Council on Monday that “January 3, 2026, marked a turning point of extreme gravity,” and that the “illegal military action” by US forces left over 100 people dead.
The amnesty law has contributed to a thaw in Venezuela’s ties with the West. The European Union’s top diplomat, Kaja Kallas, said on Monday she would propose lifting EU sanctions on Delcy Rodriguez.
The UN rights office is also in talks with Caracas to reopen its mission in Venezuela, which was closed in February 2024.
In a further shift, Rodriguez dismissed Camilla Fabri, the wife of Alex Saab, from her position as deputy minister for international communication on Monday. Saab, who was indicted in the United States for money laundering, was released in 2024 as part of a prisoner swap and appointed industry minister, but was removed from that position in January.
Frequently Asked Questions
What did Delcy Rodriguez promise?
Delcy Rodriguez promised that Venezuelans in exile would be welcomed back with open arms.
Where is Nicolás Maduro currently being held?
Nicolás Maduro is in custody in New York along with his wife, awaiting trial.
How many people have applied for amnesty?
1,500 people have applied for the amnesty, according to Jorge Rodriguez.
As Venezuela navigates this period of change, what role will international actors play in supporting a peaceful and democratic transition?
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