This is what a real president does.
An American family’s long ordeal in Venezuela is finally turning toward hope — and many say it highlights a stark contrast between President Donald Trump’s leadership and years of failure under Democrats.
This week, the wife of a previously detained American citizen was released after spending more than a year in a Venezuelan prison. Her detention followed a border incident that spiraled into a prolonged nightmare under the former Maduro regime — one that dragged on while U.S. officials under the Biden administration struggled to produce results.
Americans Caught in a Foreign Regime’s Grip
Renzo Humanchumo Castillo, a Peruvian-American who was himself held by Venezuelan authorities for nearly a year, confirmed that his Venezuelan wife, Rosa Carolina Chirino Zambrano, was freed along with a friend and a taxi driver. All had reportedly been accused of espionage simply because of their association with him.
Castillo said he was finally able to speak with his wife for the first time since late 2024, when Venezuelan officials stopped them near the Colombia border.
“It didn’t feel real,” he said. “She told me she was out. Now my priority is bringing her home.”
Castillo lives in Southern California and had been traveling with his wife and her friend when they were detained. Venezuelan authorities later accused him of terrorism and involvement in a plot against then-President Nicolás Maduro — allegations Castillo has consistently denied.
Harsh Detention and Unanswered Questions
According to Castillo, he was publicly portrayed by Venezuelan officials as part of a foreign conspiracy and transferred to the notorious El Rodeo prison. He says he endured harsh conditions and mistreatment during his confinement.
Authorities reportedly became suspicious after searching his phone and finding photos of protective equipment. Castillo explained that he works in private security and executive protection and has no military background.
Despite those explanations, he remained imprisoned for months.
In July 2025, Castillo was released as part of a prisoner exchange. His wife, however, remained detained because she is a Venezuelan citizen. For months, he had no information about her condition, increasing fear and uncertainty.
A Turning Point Under President Trump
Castillo says everything changed following decisive U.S. action under President Donald Trump.
After Maduro was captured earlier this month, Venezuelan interim authorities began releasing detained Americans. Several U.S. citizens were freed in what officials described as a step toward restoring diplomatic stability.
“For the first time, I felt hope,” Castillo said. “The odds of seeing my wife again suddenly felt real.”
The U.S. State Department welcomed the releases, while Venezuela’s interim leadership confirmed direct discussions with President Trump covering trade, national security, oil, and economic cooperation.
On Truth Social, Trump said the talks could lead to a new partnership that benefits both nations and restores prosperity after years of socialist mismanagement.
Leadership Contrast Draws Praise
Castillo openly credited the Trump administration — including Secretary of State Marco Rubio — for taking action where previous efforts stalled.
“This administration did what others wouldn’t,” he said. “They acted. They got Americans out. I’m grateful to my president.”
For many conservatives, the case underscores a clear difference in leadership: strong action versus years of hesitation. As Americans return home and hostile regimes face accountability, supporters argue the message is unmistakable — under President Trump, American citizens come first.
