
Six Americans detained in Venezuela are on their way back to the U.S. after Trump’s envoy, Richard Grenell, secured their release in negotiations with Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro. The high-level talks also resulted in Venezuela agreeing to accept deported nationals who entered the U.S. illegally, a key issue in Trump’s immigration crackdown.
President Trump sent Richard Grenell to Venezuela to explain to dictator Maduro what the New Rules are. Grenell brought back home 6 freed hostages. President Trump had name Grenell, Presidential Envoy for Special Missions in December. President Trump thanked Ric & said Great Job!
— Domenica D'Elia (@domenicadelia22) February 1, 2025
Grenell posted a photo online with the six men aboard a plane, celebrating the success of the mission. “We are wheels up and headed home with these 6 American citizens,” he wrote. Trump also weighed in, writing, “Just been informed that we are bringing six hostages home from Venezuela. Thank you to Ric Grenell and my entire staff. Great job!”
Are you telling me this can be done without trading back convicted terrorists (like we did for that basketball player)?
You will NEVER convince me that the Democrats aren't trying to destroy the US!https://t.co/IiGBDNFAK1
— Rise Up (@JM02799409) February 1, 2025
The men, wearing Venezuelan prison uniforms, have not been named. Venezuelan authorities previously claimed some detainees were involved in terrorism, though the U.S. has dismissed those allegations. The Maduro regime often arrests Americans and opposition figures, accusing them of plotting against the government.
Venezuela releases 6 U.S. detainees after Trump envoy's meeting with Maduro https://t.co/6Q7ocXLnza
— Heidi Hatch KUTV (@tvheidihatch) February 1, 2025
In addition to securing the Americans’ freedom, Trump officials pushed for Venezuela to take back thousands of its citizens, including criminals linked to gangs like Tren de Aragua. The gang, originally from Venezuela, has been blamed for spreading violent crime into the U.S. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem recently announced that more than 600,000 Venezuelans in the U.S. would lose temporary protected status, clearing the way for large-scale deportations.
The agreement marks a major policy win for Trump, who has taken a firm stance on border security and foreign policy. Unlike previous efforts to normalize relations with Maduro’s government, this approach focuses on pressing Venezuela to take responsibility for its citizens and reducing threats to American communities.
Maduro has ruled Venezuela since 2013, though opposition leaders claim the most recent election was stolen. The Venezuelan government, accused of widespread corruption, has frequently used arrests and accusations of terrorism to maintain control. Meanwhile, Trump’s administration remains focused on holding hostile regimes accountable while prioritizing American interests.