Venezuela has begun releasing political prisoners, a move that may signal a shift by the country’s new leadership amid mounting pressure from the United States. The development comes as negotiations unfold over sanctions relief, oil sales, and the fate of detained foreign nationals, raising cautious hopes among families and human rights advocates.

The announcement was made Thursday by Jorge Rodríguez, head of Venezuela’s National Assembly, who said the government was freeing an “important number” of detainees in what he called a unilateral effort to preserve peace. Rodríguez did not provide a list of names or a timeline, leaving uncertainty about the scope of the releases.

Human rights organizations estimate that between 800 and 900 political prisoners remain in custody, many detained during the presidency of Nicolás Maduro, who was captured by U.S. forces over the weekend. Activists supporting detainees say authorities have not issued an official roster of those approved for release.

Despite the lack of confirmation, evidence of releases quickly emerged. Video footage showed opposition figure Enrique Márquez being embraced after his apparent freedom. Spanish officials also confirmed that five Spanish nationals, including human rights lawyer Rocío San Miguel, were preparing to return to Spain.

The White House credited U.S. pressure for the development, describing the releases as proof of Washington’s leverage. Families of detainees and opposition leaders continue to urge both governments to secure broader releases, including that of Perkins Rocha, an adviser to opposition leader María Corina Machado.

The prisoner releases coincide with major economic negotiations. President Trump said Venezuela would use oil revenues to purchase only American-made goods, while U.S. officials confirmed Washington will control Venezuelan oil sales indefinitely. Supporters see the leverage as necessary; critics warn the humanitarian stakes remain high.