Richard Grenell, acting as the special envoy of U.S. President Donald Trump, has touched down in Venezuela for a meeting this Friday with Nicolás Maduro. Maduro, who controversially began his third term on January 10th, is the focus of this diplomatic visit, as reported by CNN.
The arrival of Grenell has stirred anticipation amidst the ongoing political tensions between the United States and the South American nation. According to Mauricio Claver-Carone, the State Department's special representative for Latin America, Grenell's mission centers on two critical issues. Firstly, the U.S. expects that Venezuelan criminals and gang members will be returned to their country without conditions, as is customary globally. Secondly, the immediate and unequivocal release of American hostages is demanded, CNN cited.
Claver-Carone emphasized that this trip is not a "quid pro quo." He clarified that there is no negotiation involved, and the United States does not rely on Venezuelan oil.
Republican Congressman Rick Scott voiced his hope on social media that Trump's envoy will insist on the return of detained Americans in Venezuela. As of now, eight U.S. citizens are held in the country, with most being detained since 2024, according to various sources.
The Independent Venezuelan American Citizens (IVAC), an exiled group based in Miami, has identified some of the detainees: Gregory David Werber, David Guttenberg Guillarme, Aaron Barrett Logan, Jonathan Pagán González, Wilbert Joseph Castaño, David Estrella, José Marcelo Vargas, and Lucas Hunter, who holds dual French-American citizenship.
Additionally, Scott highlighted his expectation that Grenell will address the issue of "thugs and gangsters" currently residing in the U.S. He reiterated his desire for Grenell to explore finding "a new country" for Maduro, Venezuelan Interior Minister Diosdado Cabello, and other regime members involved in what he deems oppressive activities.
Key Issues in U.S.-Venezuela Relations
What are the main objectives of Richard Grenell's visit to Venezuela?
Grenell's visit aims to ensure the return of Venezuelan criminals and gangs to their country without conditions and to demand the immediate release of American hostages.
How many American citizens are currently detained in Venezuela?
There are currently eight American citizens detained in Venezuela, with most having been held since 2024.
Who are some of the detained U.S. citizens identified by IVAC?
The Independent Venezuelan American Citizens (IVAC) have identified detainees including Gregory David Werber, David Guttenberg Guillarme, Aaron Barrett Logan, among others.