The United States government has issued an urgent warning telling all American citizens in Venezuela to leave the country immediately as security conditions rapidly deteriorate.
Officials said armed militia groups, commonly known as colectivos, have set up roadblocks across parts of the country. These groups are reportedly stopping vehicles and checking people for U.S. citizenship or perceived support for the United States, raising serious concerns about the safety of Americans still inside Venezuela.
The warning comes as commercial flights have resumed, giving U.S. citizens a limited window to depart. The State Department urged anyone still in the country to use any available transportation options without delay.
Venezuela remains under the highest level of U.S. travel advisory due to ongoing risks that include violent crime, civil unrest, wrongful detention, and kidnapping. Authorities stressed that the situation is unpredictable and could worsen quickly.
Americans still in Venezuela were advised to remain extremely cautious, avoid unnecessary travel, and monitor flight availability as they make arrangements to leave.