Freed Venezuelan Opposition Leader Enrique Márquez Reunites With Niece During Trump’s State of the Union

Washington D.C., USA – February 25, 2026

Enrique Márquez, a Venezuelan opposition leader recently released from prison, shared an emotional reunion with his niece during President Donald Trump’s State of the Union address on Tuesday. The moment came as Trump highlighted the US-led operation that ousted former Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro.

Trump acknowledged Márquez’s niece, Alejandra Gonzalez, in the audience, saying: “Alejandra, I’m pleased to inform you that not only has your uncle been released, but he is here tonight.” Márquez then entered the House chamber and embraced his niece to applause from lawmakers.

The reunion follows Maduro’s removal on January 3, which has triggered major political shifts in Venezuela. Acting President Delcy Rodríguez has since released hundreds of political prisoners, responding to international pressure and efforts to reform the nation’s justice system.

Márquez, a centrist presidential candidate in 2024, had been imprisoned at the notorious El Helicode prison since January 2025, accused of involvement in an attempted coup after challenging Maduro’s election victory. He was among the first political prisoners freed last month.

“Since the raid, we have worked with the new leadership, which has closed that vile prison and released hundreds of political prisoners already, with more to come,” Trump said, describing Venezuela as “a new friend and partner.”

According to the human rights group Foro Penal, over 400 political prisoners have been released since Maduro’s removal. However, many still face restrictions such as travel bans, periodic court appearances, and gag orders. Last week, Venezuelan lawmakers passed a new amnesty bill covering individuals prosecuted or convicted for political reasons, potentially paving the way for hundreds more releases.

Rodríguez hailed the amnesty as “an extraordinary door for Venezuela to reunite, learn to coexist democratically, and embrace human rights.” The National Assembly reported receiving over 1,500 amnesty requests by Saturday.

During the address, Trump also awarded US helicopter pilot Chief Warrant Officer 5 Eric Slover the Medal of Honor for his role in the operation that led to Maduro’s capture.