Venezuelan Military Image (ID 262003923): © Wirestock | Dreamstime.com
The case of Lucas Hunter, a 37-year-old dual U.S. and French citizen, has sparked international concern after his January 7, 2025, disappearance near the Colombia-Venezuela border. Hunter, an avid kitesurfer, was reportedly detained by Venezuelan military forces while on Colombian soil, and his whereabouts remain unknown.
An Unlawful Detention?
Hunter was in contact with his sister, Sophie, during his travels. In his last messages, he mentioned avoiding a checkpoint when Venezuelan soldiers crossed into Colombia and intercepted him. A day later, he sent another message stating that he was being detained but that “everything was being documented” and he would be released soon (Source: CNN).
Venezuelan Government’s Silence
Since his disappearance, Nicolás Maduro’s government has refused to provide any information. Meanwhile, the U.S. State Department has declared Hunter’s case one of “wrongful detention,” adding him to the list of nine Americans currently held in Venezuela (Source: Reuters).
Diplomatic efforts are ongoing, with Hunter’s family urging Washington and Paris to pressure Venezuela for his release.
Photo Lucas: Sophie Hunter (sister of Lucas)
