SPEAKING OUT: FORMER WRONGFULLY DETAINED AMERICANS IN VENEZUELA - As Venezuela’s political and economic crisis has worsened, so has its human rights record. The Maduro regime continues to arbitrarily detain individuals as part of its fear and repression campaign, targeting Venezuelans and non-Venezuelans alike. The United States has made significant progress in freeing wrongfully detained Americans in Venezuela: Special envoy Richard Grenell returned from a diplomatic mission in Caracas with six Americans who had been held in Venezuelan custody in February 2025. However, Grenell said that “at least six” Americans remain in Venezuelan custody, five of which have been documented by local human rights groups.

What has been done to free wrongfully detained Americans in Venezuela? How can former wrongful detainees be supported after being freed? How can the US and international community work to secure the release of wrongful detainees in Venezuela of all nationalities?

To answer these questions, join the Atlantic Council’s Adrienne Arsht Latin America Center for a virtual conversation with Eric Arthur, Matthew Heath, Eyvin Hernandez, and Osman Khan, all Americans formerly detained in Venezuela. The conversation will be moderated by Sarah Moriarty, criminal justice advocate and daughter of Robert Levinson.

ORIGINAL AIRDATE: 04/28/2025