Maduro Loyalists Rally in Caracas as Venezuela’s Interim Government Reopens Talks with U.S.

Several hundred supporters of Venezuela’s deposed leader Nicolás Maduro staged rallies in Caracas on Saturday, a week after his capture by U.S. forces, even as the interim government signalled a willingness to rebuild diplomatic ties with Washington.

Protesters waved Venezuelan flags and placards bearing images of Mr. Maduro and his wife Cilia Flores, gathering in western Caracas and the eastern Petare neighbourhood. The demonstrations, numbering around 1,000 people in total, were notably smaller than the mass rallies previously organised by Mr. Maduro’s political camp.

Many demonstrators demanded the return of the former president, who has been taken to the United States to face drug-trafficking charges. Some described his detention as a “kidnapping” and vowed to continue protests until his release.

Senior government figures, however, were absent from the rallies. Interim President Delcy Rodríguez instead attended an agricultural event, reiterating that she would pursue Mr. Maduro’s return through diplomatic means. Other influential figures, including Interior Minister Diosdado Cabello and Defence Minister Vladimir Padrino López, were also not present.

Despite the protests, signs of engagement with Washington have emerged. Venezuelan officials confirmed renewed diplomatic contacts, while the U.S. sent envoys to Caracas to discuss reopening its embassy. The developments follow claims by Donald Trump that his administration is seeking access to Venezuela’s vast oil reserves. The interim government has also begun releasing political prisoners, describing the move as a goodwill gesture. However, human rights groups and opposition leaders said only a limited number of detainees had been freed so far, with hundreds still believed to be in custody.

Families of prisoners continued to hold vigils outside detention centres such as El Rodeo Prison and El Helicoide, expressing cautious hope over further releases.

Meanwhile, oil negotiations remain central to discussions between Caracas and Washington. The White House has issued emergency measures to protect U.S.-held revenues from Venezuelan oil sales, while energy companies remain wary, citing years of sanctions and deteriorating infrastructure.