The United States welcomes today’s release of six U.S. nationals wrongfully detained in Venezuela – Joseph Cristella, Eyvin Hernandez, Jerrel Kenemore, Savoi Wright and two individuals who wish to remain private – as well as the release of four other nationals Americans. They all left Venezuela safely and will soon be reunited with their families and loved ones. I would like to thank the Government of Qatar for its work in securing their release.
The safety and security of Americans around the world is my highest priority as Secretary. Since President Biden took office, we have secured the release of more than forty Americans wrongfully detained, and we will continue to press for the release of all U.S. nationals wrongfully detained in other countries around the world.
We also welcome the release today of twenty Venezuelan political prisoners and the announcement, on November 30, of a procedure for the reintegration of all Venezuelan political candidates. These actions represent important and concrete steps towards the implementation of the electoral roadmap agreement signed by representatives of Maduro and the Unity Platform in Barbados in October. The United States supports the implementation of the electoral roadmap agreement for the 2024 Venezuelan elections and stands with the Venezuelan people who want a democratic future.