The US Embassy has issued an urgent warning, urging its citizens to immediately leave Venezuela. Official Washington has set the highest, Level 4 danger level ("Do Not Travel") for the country, citing critical instability after the arrest of Nicolás Maduro by American special forces a week ago. This is reported by UNN.
Details
The main reason for the urgent evacuation was the activation of armed groups known as "colectivos". According to intelligence, these pro-government militants are setting up illegal roadblocks on the country's main highways. They are searching vehicles, looking for US passport holders or individuals who support Washington's actions.
The security situation remains volatile. As international air travel has partially resumed, US citizens should use this opportunity to leave immediately
Risks and lack of consular assistance
The State Department warns that Americans in Venezuela face illegal detentions, torture, kidnappings, and arbitrary actions by local security forces. The situation is complicated by the fact that since 2019, there has been no American diplomatic personnel in the country, and all consular services have been suspended. This means that the US government cannot provide emergency assistance or ensure evacuation in the event of an arrest.
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Additional risk factors remain regular power outages, water shortages, and the critical state of medical infrastructure. Citizens who still remain in the country are strongly advised to register with the Smart Traveler (STEP) program, avoid traveling at night, and develop emergency action plans that do not rely on official Washington's assistance.
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