USA

President Donald Trump says Venezuela releasing political prisoners

NEWYou can now listen to Fox News articles!

President Donald Trump said Saturday that Venezuela has begun releasing political prisoners “IN A MAJOR WAY,” crediting U.S. intervention following an American military operation in the country last week.

“Venezuela has begun the process of releasing its political prisoners in a BIG way,” Trump wrote on Truth Social. “Thank you! I hope these prisoners remember how lucky they are that the United States came and did what needed to be done.”

He also gave a warning to those released: “I HOPE THEY NEVER FORGET! It wouldn’t be good for them if they forget.”

The president’s comments come a week after the United States launched Operation Absolute Resolve, attacking Venezuela and capturing dictator Nicolás Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, and transporting them to the United States to face federal drug trafficking charges.

US WARNED AMERICANS TO LEAVE VENEZUELA IMMEDIATELY as ARMED MILITIA set up barricades

Government supporters in Venezuela demonstrated in Caracas. (AP Photo)

After military operation, Trump said the US intends to temporarily supervise Venezuela’s transition process He suggests that US intervention could occur “until a safe, appropriate and reasonable transition is achieved” and warns that US forces are ready to escalate tensions if necessary.

At least 18 political prisoners were reportedly released as of Saturday, and there is no comprehensive public list of all expected releases. Reuters reported.

Following their capture, Maduro and Flores were transported to New York to face charges in US federal court. The Pentagon said Operation Absolute Resolve involved more than 150 aircraft and months of planning.

TRUMP ADMIN SAYS MADURO’S CAPTURE STRENGTHENES ALIEN ENEMIES REMOVE ACT