Walberg Welcomes Robert Vieira Home

Congressman Tim Walberg (MI-05) met with Robert Vieira, a constituent who had been detained in Tunisia since January 2024. Tunisian authorities had wrongfully accused Vieira of espionage while he was completing missionary work and detained him in January 2024. Congressman Walberg worked with the Trump administration to fight for the release of Vieira. On April 13, Vieira was released and returned to the United States. 

"I was honored to meet with Robert Vieira, a constituent of mine who was wrongfully detained in Tunisia, and hear firsthand about his experience," said Rep Walberg. "I would like to give my heartfelt thanks to the Trump administration and my team of caseworkers for helping secure his release and safe return to the U.S. I'm beyond relieved that Robert has been reunited with his family as Michigan welcomes him home with open arms." 

"My family and I sincerely appreciate the efforts of Congressman Walberg and his team of caseworkers for making my freedom a reality," said Mr. Vieira. "I am deeply grateful to be back in Michigan and reunited with my loved ones again. If you are ever in need of casework assistance, I strongly recommend that you reach out to Congressman Walberg who stands ready to help."  

Photos of the meeting can be accessed here. 

Congressman Walberg represents Michigan’s 5th Congressional District which includes the counties of Branch, Cass, Hillsdale, Jackson, Lenawee, Monroe, St. Joseph, and parts of Berrien, Calhoun, and Kalamazoo. For more information on Walberg's work in Congress, visit walberg.house.gov.