Italy Welcomes Release of Detained Nationals in Venezuela; PM Meloni Thanks Caracas Authorities. 

ROME:

Italy’s Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni welcomed with joy and satisfaction the release of Italian nationals Alberto Trentini and Mario Burlò, who are now safely at the Italian Embassy in Caracas, Venezuelan capital, after being held in detention since November 2024.

In an official statement, Meloni confirmed that she has spoken with the two compatriots and that a plane has already departed from Rome to bring them home, underscoring the government’s commitment to ensuring their safe return to Italy.

Expressing gratitude on behalf of the Italian Government, the Prime Minister extended a heartfelt thank you to the authorities in Caracas, beginning with Interim President Delcy Rodríguez, for the constructive collaboration demonstrated in the recent days that led to this outcome. She also acknowledged the efforts of all the institutions and individuals in Italy who worked with dedication and discretion to achieve this significant result.

Trentini, a charity worker affiliated with the NGO Humanity & Inclusion, and Burlò, a businessman, had been detained in Venezuela for more than a year. Their release marks the latest in a series of diplomatic efforts and humanitarian outcomes involving Italian citizens held abroad.

The return of Trentini and Burlò to Italy is expected to take place shortly as part of the government’s ongoing commitment to protect its citizens overseas.