French-Chilean National Camilo Castro Released from Venezuelan Detention After Four Months

Diplomatic Efforts Secure Release

Camilo Castro, a 41-year-old French-Chilean national, has been released from detention in Venezuela after being held for approximately four months. The news was confirmed on Sunday, November 16, 2025, by French President Emmanuel Macron, who expressed relief and praised the diplomatic efforts that led to Castro's freedom. French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot also credited French diplomacy for securing Castro's release from prison.

Castro, a yoga instructor residing in Colombia, landed at Paris' Orly airport on Sunday, visibly tired but expressing gratitude. Upon his arrival, he stated, 'Long live liberty, long live equality, and long live fraternity. May all beings on this earth live free from suffering.'

Circumstances of Detention

Camilo Castro disappeared on June 26, 2025, at the Paraguachon border crossing, which separates Venezuela from Colombia. He had reportedly crossed into Venezuela for a brief trip to renew his Colombian residency visa. Venezuelan authorities detained him under unclear circumstances. While French authorities indicated he was accused of illegally entering Venezuela, his family and Amnesty International suggested he was a victim of 'hostage diplomacy' and was even accused of being 'a terrorist in the service of the CIA' by his stepfather.

During his detention, Castro was held in Rodeo I prison in Caracas. His stepfather, Yves Guibert, described his detention conditions as 'extremely difficult' and 'without motif,' stating that he was held 'because he was French.' For a period, his family had limited contact, receiving only a voice message in late July where he 'called for help.'

International Involvement and French Stance

The French government emphasized that no 'quid pro quo' was involved in securing Castro's release. However, Foreign Minister Barrot thanked Brazil and Mexico for their assistance in the negotiations. President Macron highlighted France's approach, stating, 'France sometimes advances quietly, but always with determination and composure: That is how we protect our own.'

Amnesty International had previously denounced what it termed a policy of 'enforced disappearances' of opponents and foreign nationals in Venezuela, particularly since President Nicolas Maduro was declared the winner of a disputed vote in July 2024. The organization suggested that Venezuelan authorities might be using such practices as a 'bargaining chip' in negotiations with other countries.