Richard Grenell, special envoy for President Trump, secured the release of six American detainees in Venezuela after a meeting with President Nicolás Maduro in Caracas. Grenell announced their return on X (formerly Twitter), sharing that the freed individuals expressed gratitude to President Trump. The identities of the six individuals, four of whom were seen wearing Venezuelan prison attire, were not disclosed in the post.

Prior to the meeting, U.S. Special Envoy to Latin America, Mauricio Claver-Carone, emphasized the immediate and unconditional release of American hostages, clarifying that it was not a negotiation or quid pro quo. Media reports indicate at least nine Americans have been held in Venezuela, with Maduro's administration accusing most of involvement in terrorism or mercenary activities.

An image released by the Venezuelan presidential press office depicts Maduro and Grenell shaking hands at the Miraflores presidential palace. The Venezuelan government stated the meeting addressed various topics of mutual interest, including migration, sanctions, and the detained Americans. The meeting occurred despite the U.S. not recognizing Maduro as Venezuela’s legitimate leader, instead viewing opposition candidate Edmundo González as the victor of the recent election.

President Trump reiterated his strong opposition to Maduro and his regime's treatment of the Venezuelan people. Grenell’s visit also aimed to pressure Maduro into accepting the return of approximately 400 members of the Tren de Aragua gang, which Venezuelan authorities claim was dismantled in 2023. Claver-Carone stressed the deportations should be unconditional and non-negotiable.