Venezuela has started to release people who many believe were political prisoners. This is a big change. It could lead to better relations with other countries. Venezuelan leaders say this is to help national unity and peace. This comes after difficult times with the United States.
The releases began on a Saturday. Many people have been freed. We do not know the exact number of names yet. Venezuela says it is doing this to help its own country. Jorge Rodríguez, who leads Venezuela's National Assembly, called it a "smart gesture." He said it shows Venezuela wants peace.
The United States is also changing its approach. Former President Donald Trump said he cancelled planned attacks on Venezuela. This, along with the prisoner releases, suggests the US is rethinking its policy. US officials have met with Venezuelan leaders. They want to start talking officially again.
Many groups wanted Venezuela to free these prisoners. The US and human rights groups asked for this for a long time. Venezuela has been accused of holding political opponents. Some think there are 800 to 1,000 political prisoners. Five Spanish citizens were released. One was Rocío San Miguel, an activist.
The US and Venezuela have not had good relations for years. They stopped talking officially in 2019. This happened after many years of problems. The US has been working with Venezuela from Colombia.
Spain said the releases are a "positive step." This shows other countries see Venezuela trying to improve things. We will need to watch the next few weeks. Will more prisoners be released? Will Venezuela show it respects human rights and democracy?