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Venezuelan Streets on Alert as Opposition Renews Call for Political Prisoners’ Freedom
Security forces have stepped up patrols across major Venezuelan cities amid heightened political tension, as opposition groups intensified demands for the immediate release of political prisoners and renewed calls for democratic freedoms.
The increased security presence followed a wave of protests and demonstrations held overnight in several countries, many of them outside United States embassies. The gatherings reflected sharply divided global reactions to Washington’s recent decision to capture Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro. While some demonstrators criticised the move as an overreach, others expressed support for the action, framing it as an opportunity to push for political change and the restoration of freedoms in Venezuela.
Speaking in an overnight interview, former US president Donald Trump was asked who ultimately holds authority over Venezuela. “Me,” he replied, while insisting that the United States is not at war with the Venezuelan state. Instead, he maintained that Washington’s focus is on criminal networks, saying, “We’re at war with people that sell drugs… that empty their prisons into our country.” His remarks underscored the US administration’s position that its actions are aimed at combating transnational crime rather than engaging in a conventional conflict.
However, the situation has also sparked debate within the United States. A senior Democratic figure criticised the US strikes on Venezuela, arguing that they lacked congressional approval. He said he intends to “confront the administration” over any proposal to deploy additional US troops to Venezuelan territory, describing such a move as a “non-starter” and emphasising the need for political oversight and restraint.
In Venezuela, the human impact of the unfolding events has come into sharper focus. Speaking publicly for the first time since his parents were taken into custody, Maduro Guerra warned of the broader implications of the situation. “If we normalise the kidnapping of a head of state, no country is safe,” he said, framing the episode as a dangerous precedent with global consequences.
Amid the uncertainty, the Venezuelan opposition has sought to redirect attention toward longstanding human rights concerns. The movement led by opposition figure María Corina Machado has formally demanded the release of all political prisoners. In a statement posted on X by her Vente Venezuela movement, the group called on authorities to act without delay. “Those who unjustly hold the civilian and military political prisoners should free them immediately,” the statement read.
Machado later reposted the message, amplifying the call and reinforcing her movement’s stance that meaningful stability can only be achieved through justice, due process, and respect for fundamental rights. Supporters say the renewed focus on political prisoners reflects growing optimism that international attention could help create momentum for dialogue, reconciliation, and a more inclusive political future for Venezuela.
Search efforts and inquiries remain ongoing after Prince Andrew was released under investigation following a day spent in police custody.
More than 19 hours after he was photographed reclining in the back seat of a vehicle upon release, the King’s younger brother remains at the centre of an active inquiry. The 66-year-old spent approximately 11 hours in custody on his birthday after being arrested on suspicion of misconduct in public office.
The development marked the first arrest of a senior royal in modern history.
Following his release, Andrew departed Aylsham Police Station after a lengthy period that involved hours of transport and waiting.
Although no charges have been filed, Andrew has been released under investigation — meaning he is free to resume daily activities for now, but remains subject to further questioning as inquiries progress.
Authorities continue to examine matters linked to properties associated with the Duke, including locations connected to the Sandringham Estate.
According to royal correspondent Helena Wilkinson, Andrew’s legal situation remains unresolved, and he may be required to return for additional interviews as the investigation develops.
Authorities have confirmed that Prince Andrew was arrested earlier today on suspicion of misconduct in public office, marking a significant development that is now set to move through the formal legal system.
The arrest took place at a residence on the Sandringham Estate in Norfolk at approximately 08:00 this morning. Police have since continued investigative searches at that property, as well as at his former home located within Windsor Great Park.
In recent weeks, Andrew had relocated from Windsor to establish a temporary base at Sandringham while renovation work progresses on his future long-term residence at nearby Marsh Farm.
The Sandringham Estate, originally acquired in 1862 as a private retreat for the future Edward VII when he was Albert, Prince of Wales, has long remained a cherished country residence passed from monarch to monarch. It continues to serve as a traditional gathering place for the Royal Family, particularly during the Christmas period.
It is understood Andrew has been staying at Wood Farm, a secluded house near the village of Wolferton. The residence holds personal significance, having been chosen by his father, Prince Philip, as his primary home following retirement from public duties in 2017.
Today, Sandringham has seen heightened police presence as the investigation proceeds.
Meanwhile, King Charles III continued with his scheduled public engagements in London, where he was greeted by both questions and expressions of public support upon arrival.
Maintaining continuity and stability, the King chose—like the Queen earlier—to proceed with previously planned duties. In a statement, he reaffirmed confidence in due process, noting that “the law must take its course.”
It has also been confirmed that neither the King nor Buckingham Palace were informed in advance of the arrest, underscoring the independence of the legal process now underway.
Authorities are assessing new information concerning private jet movements at Stansted Airport after fresh scrutiny linked to the activities of convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.
Essex Police confirmed it is examining details related to private flights arriving at and departing from the airport in light of disclosures emerging from the recently published Epstein files.
The review follows calls from former UK Prime Minister Gordon Brown, who urged in the New Statesman that law enforcement should “urgently” revisit whether Epstein’s victims may have been trafficked into or out of the United Kingdom.
A previous investigation identified 87 flights connected to Epstein that either landed at or departed from UK airports between the early 1990s and 2018.
Stansted Airport has maintained that private aircraft operations are conducted independently, noting that it does not oversee passenger arrangements for privately chartered flights.
The police assessment is part of broader efforts to understand any potential connections between flight activity and trafficking concerns raised in the wake of the latest disclosures.
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