Amid escalating tensions in the Caribbean, U.S. officials say Venezuelan security forces detained several Americans in recent months, according to The New York Times. Those held include dual Venezuelan-American passport holders and U.S. citizens, with Washington estimating at least two were wrongfully detained. The identities of most detainees remain unclear, while one traveler, James Luckey-Lange, was reported missing after entering Venezuela in December. Analysts say President Nicolás Maduro uses detained Americans as leverage in talks with Washington. Earlier negotiations led to releases, but recent U.S. military pressure and strikes near Venezuela have reportedly halted further prisoner deals.

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