Venezuela Releases 'Large Number' of Prisoners Amid US Pressure

In a surprise move, Venezuela has announced the release of a significant number of prisoners, including foreigners, in a gesture that appears to be a concession to the United States. The move comes after the US-backed ouster of President Nicolas Maduro, who was removed from power in a US-led operation. The releases were announced by Delcy Rodriguez's brother, Jorge Rodriguez, who said the prisoners were being freed for the sake of 'peaceful coexistence.' However, the exact number of prisoners released and their identities remain unclear. Human rights group Foro Penal estimates that there are 806 political prisoners in Venezuelan custody. The US State Department has not confirmed whether the releases were a demand of the Trump administration, but the move has been welcomed by the group as 'good news.' The releases come as US President Donald Trump has hinted that the US could exert control over Venezuela's oil reserves for years. Trump's comments have sparked controversy, with the US Senate taking a step towards passing a resolution to rein in military actions against Venezuela. The move reflects growing disquiet among lawmakers over the secretive capture of Maduro, which was conducted without their express approval. The US has emerged as a key player in Venezuela's crisis, with oil reserves at the center of the negotiations. Trump has announced plans to sell Venezuelan crude oil to the US, with Caracas using the proceeds to buy US-made products. However, opinions on the plan remain divided, with some Venezuelans welcoming the opportunity to access the US market. As the situation in Venezuela continues to unfold, the US is considering a plan to exert control over the country's state oil company, PDVSA. The move has sparked warnings from Venezuela's former information minister, who said that Delcy Rodriguez's power comes from Washington, not from within the country. If she fails to comply with Trump's agenda, she will face the same fate as Maduro, he warned.