Naval Special Warfare Operator Back in U.S. After Venezuela Captivity

A U.S. Navy sailor, who spent almost a year in Venezuela, has returned home and is currently participating in a reintegration program tailored for service members. 

Special Warfare Operator 1st Class Wilbert Castañeda, 37, was released on July 18 in a diplomatic exchange that also involved the U.S. bringing back more than 250 Venezuelans who had been deported to El Salvador. Castañeda is presently undergoing care at Brooke Army Medical Center, located in San Antonio, Texas. He is recovering from experiences of isolation and captivity, as confirmed by a Navy spokesperson on Monday.

Castañeda was taken into custody in Caracas in August 2023 amid allegations of his involvement in a CIA-led conspiracy against Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro—assertions that the U.S. State Department has labeled as “categorically false.” When he was apprehended, Castañeda's classification as a SEAL in the Navy had already been taken away, but additional information has not been disclosed.

Christian Castañeda, his brother, shared in a statement that Wilbert made a trip to Venezuela to connect with a romantic partner. He also highlighted that Wilbert had experienced several traumatic brain injuries from his position as a breacher in Naval Special Warfare, which affected his judgment and could have played a role in his choice to travel.

“His condition prompted a poor choice to travel to Venezuela,” Christian stated in a press release from Global Reach, a nonprofit organization that supports Americans who have been wrongfully detained.

Wilbert Castañeda joined the Navy in 2007 and successfully finished special warfare training by 2008. He was a member of distinguished Naval Special Warfare units on both the East and West Coasts until 2022. His service record features numerous accolades, such as three Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medals and two Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medals.

“We’re just relieved that he is out, getting the care he needs, and will be able to celebrate his 38th birthday in freedom,” said Christian Castañeda.

The Navy has initiated an inquiry regarding the details surrounding his detention.

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