Washington | January 11, 2026 | The United States has issued a strong advisory urging its citizens to leave Venezuela immediately, citing a rapidly deteriorating security environment marked by the growing presence of armed militias, roadblocks, civil unrest and the complete suspension of US consular services in the country.
In a security alert issued by the US Department of State, authorities said conditions in Venezuela remain “unstable and unpredictable,” warning that American citizens face serious risks across multiple regions. On the basis of these assessments, Venezuela continues to remain under Travel Advisory Level 4: ‘Do Not Travel’, the highest warning issued by the US government.
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The State Department noted that international commercial flights have resumed operations from Venezuela and advised US nationals still in the country to take advantage of available travel options and depart as soon as it is safe to do so. However, it cautioned that limited flight availability and high demand could make departures difficult.
Armed Militias and Roadblocks
One of the primary concerns flagged in the advisory is the increasing activity of armed civilian militias, commonly referred to as colectivos. According to US officials, these groups have been setting up roadblocks in several areas, stopping vehicles and conducting searches of passengers.
“There are reports of armed militias establishing checkpoints and inspecting vehicles for evidence of US citizenship or support for the United States,” the advisory said. American citizens have been urged to remain vigilant and exercise extreme caution, particularly while travelling by road.
The alert also highlighted a broader breakdown in law and order. Arbitrary enforcement of local laws, violent crime, kidnappings and politically motivated intimidation were cited as significant threats to foreign nationals.
All Consular Services Suspended
The State Department reiterated that all US consular services in Venezuela — both routine and emergency — are currently suspended, effectively leaving American citizens without access to embassy or consular assistance.
“As a result, the US government is currently unable to provide emergency services to US citizens in Venezuela,” the alert stated. Americans still in the country have been advised to prepare contingency plans and ensure they have multiple means of communication with family and contacts outside Venezuela.
The advisory also pointed to frequent power outages and disruptions to essential services, adding to the challenges faced by residents and travellers.
Guidance for US Citizens
In addition to urging departure, US authorities issued a set of precautionary guidelines for citizens in Venezuela or those considering travel:
- Do not travel to Venezuela
- US citizens already in the country should prioritise personal safety and limit movement
- Monitor airline websites and communications for updated flight information
- Establish reliable communication channels with family and friends outside the country
- Prepare emergency contingency plans due to the absence of US government assistance
- Enrol in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) for security updates
Political Unrest Adds to Instability
The heightened warning comes amid deepening political instability in Venezuela. Tensions escalated following a recent US military operation that resulted in the capture of President Nicolás Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores. The development has triggered protests and demonstrations by Maduro’s supporters in several cities.
Security analysts say the unrest has further emboldened armed groups and heightened uncertainty, particularly in urban centres and along key transport routes.
With diplomatic relations severed and emergency assistance unavailable, US officials have stressed that remaining in Venezuela poses “unacceptable risks” to American citizens.
The travel advisory will remain in effect until further notice, with the US government continuing to closely monitor developments on the ground.
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