Full Breakdown
U.S. Urges Citizens to Leave Venezuela Amid Rising Violence
1/12/2026, 8:53:50 PM
Immediate Security Alert for U.S. Citizens
The U.S. Department of State has issued an urgent security alert advising American citizens in Venezuela to leave the country immediately. This warning follows the recent capture of former Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro by U.S. forces, which has led to increased violence and instability in the region. Reports indicate that armed militias, known as "colectivos," are actively setting up roadblocks and searching vehicles for evidence of U.S. citizenship or support for the United States. The alert emphasizes the need for heightened vigilance and caution when traveling by road.
Context of the Situation
The security situation in Venezuela has been classified as "fluid," with the U.S. maintaining a Level 4 travel advisory—"Do Not Travel"—due to severe risks including wrongful detention, torture, terrorism, and civil unrest. The State Department's warning comes as international flights have resumed, providing a narrow window for U.S. citizens to exit the country safely. Since March 2019, the U.S. has had no diplomatic personnel in Venezuela, limiting its ability to provide emergency assistance.
Armed Militias and Civil Unrest
The colectivos, pro-government militias loyal to Maduro, have been reported roaming the streets of Caracas on motorbikes, establishing checkpoints, and searching for individuals perceived to be U.S. supporters. Eyewitness accounts describe armed groups stopping vehicles and inspecting personal belongings, including mobile phones. The Venezuelan government has denied these claims, asserting that the country is stable and secure, labeling the U.S. warnings as "fabricated."
Official Statements & Responses
The U.S. Embassy in Caracas reiterated the urgency of the situation, stating, "U.S. citizens in Venezuela should leave the country immediately," and warned of the inability to provide consular assistance. In contrast, the Venezuelan Ministry of Foreign Affairs claimed that the U.S. alert was based on non-existent threats, asserting, "Venezuela is in absolute calm, peace, and stability."
Criticism & Opposition
Critics of the U.S. intervention argue that the military operation to capture Maduro has exacerbated tensions and instability in Venezuela. Supporters of Maduro have taken to the streets to protest what they view as an imperialist act of aggression. Opposition leader María Corina Machado welcomed Maduro's capture but cautioned that the crisis is far from resolved, as armed loyalists continue to resist.
What's Next
As the situation develops, the U.S. government is expected to maintain its travel advisory for Venezuela. American citizens still in the country are encouraged to monitor commercial flight availability and remain in contact with family and friends outside Venezuela. The U.S. continues to explore diplomatic avenues with the acting Venezuelan government, led by Delcy Rodríguez, who has expressed a willingness to improve relations with Washington.
Verbatim Quotes
- “As international flights have resumed, U.S. citizens in Venezuela should leave the country immediately.” — U.S. Embassy Caracas
- “Venezuela is in absolute calm, peace, and stability.” — Venezuelan Ministry of Foreign Affairs
- “The security situation in Venezuela remains fluid.” — U.S. Department of State
The unfolding events in Venezuela highlight the precarious balance between political power and public safety, as both the U.S. and Venezuelan governments navigate the complexities of this volatile situation.
