Venezuelan security forces detained multiple U.S. citizens in recent months. This occurred amid increasing pressure from the Trump administration. The U.S. official confirmed the detentions.
Some detainees face legitimate criminal charges. The U.S. government considers at least two prisoners wrongfully detained. Those arrested include three Venezuelan-American dual passport holders. Two American citizens with no known ties to Venezuela were also detained. The official spoke anonymously due to lack of authorization.
President Trump prioritized the release of Americans held overseas. He sent Richard Grenell to Venezuela to negotiate a prisoner deal. Talks between U.S. and Venezuelan officials followed.
President Nicolás Maduro has a history. He has used detained Americans as bargaining chips with Washington. The Trump administration has increased military and economic pressure on Venezuela.
The U.S. government will likely continue negotiations for the release of the detained citizens. Further actions by the Trump administration are anticipated.
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