Rubio meets with Venezuela's Foreign Minister, urges release of more political prisoners

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio met Venezuela's Foreign Minister Oliver Blanco, urging the release of political prisoners and discussing Venezuela's political transition. This meeting was Blanco's first visit to the US since his appointment by interim president Delcy Rodriguez. Rubio reiterated the US's three-phase plan for Venezuela, focusing on stabilization, economic recovery, and democratic transition. The diplomats addressed the ongoing reconciliation talks and the need for institutional reforms to ensure credible elections. Despite some political prisoners being released under a recent amnesty law, hundreds remain incarcerated. Both sides acknowledged plans for future elections, although no specific dates were provided.