Italians Released from Venezuelan Prison

January 17, 2026

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Italian aid worker Alberto Trentini and businessman Mario Burlò were released from Venezuela’s El Rodeo I prison on January 12th, after enduring 420 days of detention. Their release followed a period of intensified international pressure, including a recent military operation by the United States and diplomatic negotiations conducted by Italian officials. The former detainees have described the conditions within the facility as severe, highlighting overcrowding, neglect, and psychological duress.

Story Highlights

Italian nationals Alberto Trentini and Mario Burlò were released on January 12th from El Rodeo I prison in Venezuela.
The release followed a January 3rd U.S. military operation and diplomatic negotiations by Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani and Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni.
Trentini and Burlò reported harsh conditions, including isolation, weight loss, and psychological duress during their 420 days of confinement.
Venezuelan officials, led by acting president Delcy Rodríguez, stated the releases were a “gesture for peace and unity.”

International Pressure Leads to Prisoner Release

Italian aid worker Alberto Trentini and businessman Mario Burlò were released from El Rodeo I prison on January 12th, a development that followed President Trump’s January 3rd military operation and the capture of Nicolás Maduro. Following the U.S. action, acting president Delcy Rodríguez began releasing political prisoners, describing the move as a “gesture for peace and unity.” This diplomatic outcome was a result of sustained international attention and pressure on the regime.

‘Worse Than Alcatraz’ — Released Italian Political Prisoners of Venezuela Recount Prison Horrorhttps://t.co/0XkaCvbF0A

— warrior (@COADETB335thSFG) January 14, 2026

Former Detainees Detail Harsh Conditions

The two Italians had been detained for 420 days at the El Rodeo I prison. They reported conditions that included overcrowding, violence, neglect, isolation cells, significant weight loss, and psychological duress. Former prisoners have described these facilities as being “worse than Alcatraz.” Trentini was detained in connection with humanitarian aid work, while Burlò was imprisoned for business activities after being acquitted of unrelated charges.

Italians Released from Venezuela Land Safely In Rome | World News

Diplomatic Efforts and Context of Release

Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani engaged in diplomatic efforts, combined with public appeals from Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni to acting president Delcy Rodríguez. These negotiations secured the release of the two Italians, who safely arrived at Rome’s embassy before being repatriated.

Despite the release of 41 of 116 announced prisoners, human rights organizations continue to report that over 800 political detainees remain confined in Venezuela. The regime’s record includes a history of unfulfilled amnesty promises, which adds complexity to the recent releases.

Watch: Ex preso político relata el “infierno” vivido en cárcel de Venezuela