The United States government has issued an urgent warning to its citizens in Venezuela, advising them to depart the country without delay. This alert follows disturbing reports of armed paramilitary groups actively seeking out American nationals in the wake of last week's dramatic political upheaval.
State Department Issues Critical Security Alert
In a security alert disseminated on Saturday, the US State Department revealed it had received information about armed members of pro-regime militias, known as colectivos. These groups are reportedly establishing roadblocks and inspecting vehicles, specifically looking for evidence that occupants are US citizens or supporters of the opposition.
The advisory explicitly stated, "US citizens in Venezuela should remain vigilant and exercise caution when traveling by road." It urged an immediate departure, noting that some international flight options from Venezuela have now resumed.
Volatile Aftermath of Caracas Raid
The warning starkly highlights the ongoing volatility in Venezuela, which erupted following a deadly night-time special forces assault on Caracas one week ago. That operation resulted in the capture of the country's president, Nicolás Maduro, and led to scores of casualties.
While many Venezuelans opposed to Maduro's government celebrated his detention, his supporters have flooded the streets in protest. They condemn his rendition as an imperialist act of aggression by the United States.
On the ground in the capital, reporters and activists have witnessed rifle-carrying colectivo members patrolling Caracas on motorcycles and erecting checkpoints across the city. The crucial roads linking Caracas to its western border are now heavily monitored, with dozens of military and police checkpoints in place.
Diplomatic Moves and Conflicting Statements
Amid the tension, US State Department officials visited Caracas on Friday. This trip is widely believed to be part of preliminary work for the potential re-opening of the US embassy there. Interestingly, Maduro's successor, the acting president Delcy Rodríguez, has called for improved relations with Washington despite the abduction of her ally.
In a contrasting tone last week, US President Donald Trump told the New York Times that he would like to visit Venezuela in the future. He had previously claimed the US was "running" the South American country after removing its leaders. "I think at some point it'll be safe," Trump remarked to reporters, even as his own State Department's alert painted a picture of significant and immediate danger for American citizens.
