Argentine Families Seek Vatican's Help for Loved Ones Trapped in Venezuela
In a bold move, the families of two Argentine citizens held in Venezuela have turned to the Vatican for assistance, hoping the Catholic Church can push for their release. This comes as Venezuela begins to free some prisoners.
The Detainees
- Nahuel Agustín Gallo, a security expert, was arrested in December 2024.
- German Giuliani, a lawyer, has been imprisoned since May 2025.
Their wives approached the Catholic Church in Buenos Aires, submitting a formal request for intervention. They hope the Vatican can expedite their release.
A Plea for Justice
Alexandra Gomez, Gallo's wife, spoke out, stating her husband has been missing for 411 days. She criticized the slow pace of releases, arguing it only prolongs the suffering of families. Gomez and others demand the freedom of all innocent detainees.
In a letter to Pope Leo and Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the families emphasized the Vatican's commitment to human rights and called for better treatment of prisoners.
Protests and Demands
Outside, relatives and friends of Venezuelan political prisoners held a protest. They carried photos and flags, with signs reading:
- "They took them alive, we want them back alive."
- "Political prisoners are not bargaining chips."
Virginia Rivero, Giuliani's wife, expressed mixed feelings. While she was glad they were heard, she felt the response was weak and feared the Church might not fully understand the situation.
Venezuela's Prisoner Releases
Venezuela has started releasing some political prisoners as part of efforts to ease domestic and international tensions. This move could signal improving U.S.-Venezuela relations. However, many prisoners remain detained, leaving the situation unresolved and tense.
