Italy announced on Monday that Venezuela has released two Italian citizens from prison, prompting Rome to pledge an upgrade in diplomatic relations with Caracas. The development follows a series of recent releases of foreign nationals by Venezuelan authorities and marks a significant step in easing tensions between the two countries.
Two Italian Citizens Released
Venezuela freed Italian nationals Alberto Trentini and Mario Burlo, who had been detained since November 2024, according to statements from Italian officials. Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani said the releases mean that no prisoners remain in Venezuela who hold only Italian citizenship, after two other Italians were freed the previous week.
Those released earlier were journalist Biagio Pilieri and businessman Luigi Gasperin. Despite these developments, Tajani noted that dozens of individuals with dual Italian-Venezuelan nationality remain in detention.
Background of the Detentions
Alberto Trentini, a charity worker from Venice, was the most prominent of the Italians held. He was arrested in November 2024 alongside his Venezuelan driver, Rafael Machado, while working for Humanity & Inclusion, a non-governmental organization that supports people with disabilities.
Mario Burlo, a businessman from Turin, was also detained in November 2024. Both men were held at the El Rodeo I prison in Caracas, according to Italian officials.
Venezuela’s leadership announced on January 8 that it would release a significant number of prisoners, including foreign nationals, describing the move as a gesture of goodwill. The decision followed calls from human rights groups, international organizations, and opposition figures
Italy’s Response and Repatriation Plans
Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni confirmed that a plane had departed from Rome to bring Trentini and Burlo back to Italy.
“I welcome with joy and satisfaction the release of our compatriots Alberto Trentini and Mario Burlo, who are now safely at the Italian Embassy in Caracas,” Meloni said in a statement.
“I welcome with joy and satisfaction the release of my fellow countrymen Alberto Trentini and Mario Burlò, who are now safe at the Italian Embassy in Caracas. I have spoken with them, and an airplane has already departed from Rome to bring them home. I wish to express, on behalf of the Italian Government, heartfelt thanks to the Authorities of Caracas, starting with President Rodriguez, for the constructive collaboration demonstrated in these last few days and to all the institutions and people who, in Italy, have worked with commitment and discretion to achieve this important result.”
Upgrade in Diplomatic Relations
As part of Italy’s response, Tajani said Rome would upgrade its diplomatic relations with Venezuela by elevating its top envoy from chargé d’affaires to a fully accredited ambassador.
Meloni thanked Venezuelan authorities, including interim President Delcy Rodríguez, “for the constructive cooperation demonstrated in recent days.” Tajani described Venezuela as a “very important country” for Italy, citing its large Italian immigrant community and the presence of Italian energy company Eni in the country.
