Richard Grenell, acting on President Trump's directive, has conveyed a stern message to Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro: accept the return of Venezuelan criminals deported from the U.S. and immediately release all American hostages. This direct communication, confirmed by White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt, underscores the U.S. government's unwavering stance on these two critical issues.

During a press briefing, U.S. Special Envoy to Latin America, Mauricio Claver-Carone, emphasized that Grenell's message to Maduro is non-negotiable. The repatriation of Venezuelan criminals, including members of the notorious Tren de Aragua gang, and the unconditional release of American hostages are not subject to any quid pro quo.

Claver-Carone reiterated that this demand aligns with international norms, expecting Venezuela to receive its deported criminals just as other nations do. He stressed President Trump's clear position that these matters are not open for discussion or bargaining.

The timing of this mission coincides with ongoing tensions surrounding Maduro's contested presidency. The U.S. continues to refuse recognition of Maduro's legitimacy following the disputed 2024 election. Meanwhile, opposition figures like María Corina Machado are urging Venezuelan citizens to challenge Maduro's regime and advocate for the recognition of opposition candidate Edmundo González Urrutia as the rightful president.

The exact number of American detainees in Venezuela remains uncertain. While estimates suggest as many as ten, the State Department has not officially designated them as wrongfully detained. Three of these individuals are allegedly implicated in a destabilization plot, a claim the State Department vehemently denies. This situation follows a significant 2023 prisoner exchange where ten Americans were released in return for Colombian businessman Alex Saab, a key Maduro associate. Saab's arrest during the Trump administration stemmed from allegations of involvement in a substantial bribery scheme.

Alberto Ray, a security strategist aligned with opposition leader María Machado, has warned of potential repercussions if Maduro maintains power. He predicts a surge in Venezuelan immigration to the U.S. and a corresponding increase in criminal activity attributed to the Tren de Aragua gang.