CARACAS: Six Ameri­cans detained in Vene­zuela were released on Friday and returned to the United States with President Donald Trump’s special envoy, following his meeting with President Nicolas Maduro who called for a “new beginning” in ties with Washington.

“We are wheels up and headed home with these 6 American citizens. They just spoke to @realDonaldTrump and they couldn’t stop thanking him,” Richard Grenell, an outspoken Trump ally who serves in a broad role as envoy for special missions, posted on X.

The six men, who were not identified, were photographed smiling on a plane alongside Grenell. “Just been informed that we are bringing six hostages home from Venezuela. Thank you to Ric Grenell and my entire staff. Great job!” Trump posted on his Truth Social platform.

Grenell had travelled to Caracas to demand that Maduro’s government accept the unconditional return of Venezuelans deported from the United States or face consequences.

Published in Dawn, February 2nd, 2025