U.S. State Department Renews ‘Do Not Travel’ Advisory for Venezuela Citing Crime and Detention Risks
WASHINGTON — The U.S. State Department has renewed its “do not travel” advisory for Venezuela, urging all American citizens and lawful permanent residents to leave the country immediately due to significant risks related to crime, terrorism, and arbitrary detention, officials said Wednesday.
The advisory highlights a range of dangers including violent crimes such as homicide, armed robbery, kidnapping, and carjacking, which are common throughout Venezuela. It also warns of the presence of dangerous Colombian terrorist groups operating in border areas with Colombia, Brazil, and Guyana.
Since the U.S. severed diplomatic ties with Venezuela in 2019 and closed its embassy, it no longer has the capacity to provide emergency services or consular assistance to U.S. citizens in the country. The advisory states there is “no safe way to travel to Venezuela” and advises against any travel to the country by any means.
Officials caution that tourists face a very high risk of detention, even for minor border infractions. The U.S. government is generally not informed when Americans are detained, and detainees are often cut off from communication and subjected to harsh treatment. According to the advisory, former detainees and independent human rights organizations report severe beatings, prolonged restraint in stress positions, and waterboarding.
The advisory also warns travelers to avoid unregulated taxis from Maiquetia Simón Bolívar International Airport and to be cautious when using ATMs in the area. Additionally, Venezuela is experiencing shortages of gasoline, electricity, water, and medicine, further complicating travel and safety conditions.
Given these risks, the State Department advises Americans with plans to travel to or from Venezuela not to rely on government assistance and to prepare a “proof of life” plan in case of detention. The advisory comes amid ongoing U.S. efforts to combat narcotics trafficking linked to Venezuela, with President Donald Trump recently stating increased actions against drug operations on land and sea.
The renewed warning underscores the precarious security and humanitarian situation in Venezuela, urging Americans to prioritize their safety by avoiding travel and departing the country if already present.
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