Venezuela and US Agree on Prisoner Swap, Including Maduro Ally

The government of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro plans to release up to 36 people, including 12 Americans, in exchange for the release of Maduro ally Alex Saab, a Colombian businessman accused by U.S. prosecutors of money laundering. The U.S. had given Venezuela until November 30 to make progress on removing public office bans on opposition candidates and releasing political prisoners and "wrongfully detained" Americans to avoid reinstating sanctions. While the releases could be seen as compliance with U.S. demands, Saab's return to Venezuela would be a victory for Maduro. The identities of the 12 Americans to be released have not been determined.