US to Release Venezuelan President Maduro Without Conditions Immediately

Venezuela’s Foreign Minister Yvan Gil has made a statement at the United Nations Human Rights Council in Geneva, calling for the release of President Nicolas Maduro and his wife Cilia Flores. The pair were taken into custody by US authorities on January 3rd, pending trial on charges related to drug trafficking and conspiracy.

Gil stated that the operation was a “systematic campaign” resulting in over 100 deaths. He described the abduction as a “political operation disguised as a legal debate.” Maduro and Flores have been held in prison in New York since their arrest.

Despite the recent events, Venezuela’s foreign minister noted that the country is not at war with the US. However, he emphasized that the US blockade and sanctions imposed on Venezuela for years are having a significant impact on the country’s economy and humanitarian situation.

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has described Venezuela’s economic and humanitarian situation as “quite fragile,” citing high inflation and currency depreciation. The US Department of the Treasury recently announced easing some sanctions on Venezuela’s energy sector, marking one of the largest reprieves since Maduro’s arrest.

Venezuela has begun a process of reconciliation and political coexistence following recent developments in the country. The government has approved a 2026 Amnesty Law for Democratic Coexistence, which could free hundreds of people jailed over protests and political unrest dating back decades. This week alone, the law granted amnesty to 379 political prisoners.

Gil also emphasized that human rights should not be used as a pretext for war and urged the UN forum to remain impartial. He called on the council to end all punitive measures against Venezuela and respect the sovereignty of states.

Source: Al Jazeera