In a 'unilateral peace gesture' following Nicolás Maduro's ouster, Venezuelan interim leader Delcy Rodríguez ordered the release of five Spanish nationals previously highlighted in diplomatic efforts—including two Basques, a Canary Islander sailor, a Valencian resident, and a Spanish-Venezuelan activist—who are now en route to Spain.
Building on months of Spanish diplomatic pressure, including family meetings with President Pedro Sánchez and prison visits, Venezuelan authorities under interim President Delcy Rodríguez released five long-detained Spanish nationals on January 8, 2026. National Assembly President Jorge Rodríguez announced the move as a step toward peace and coexistence, crediting mediation by former Spanish PM José Luis Rodríguez Zapatero, Brazilian President Lula da Silva, and Qatar.
Freed are: Basques Andrés Martínez Adasme (32) and José María Basoa (35), arrested in 2024 on unsubstantiated assassination plot charges; journalist Miguel Moreno Dapena (34), detained in 2025 during a shipwreck exploration in disputed waters; Valencian Ernesto Gorbe Cardona (52), held for visa issues; and Spanish-Venezuelan Rocío San Miguel (59), a human rights defender jailed since 2024 amid health concerns flagged by Amnesty International.
Spain's Foreign Minister José Manuel Albares confirmed their flight to Spain with embassy aid, while President Sánchez called it 'an act of justice' for reconciliation. Despite the gesture, Foro Penal reports 863 political prisoners remain, including 86 foreigners. The release follows international talks to stabilize Venezuela post-Maduro's US capture and avert civil war.
