Colombia-Venezuela border closed; flights canceled amid security concerns

Colombia-Venezuela border closed; flights canceled amid security concerns
Geopolitics
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Brendan O'Brien, Deputy Chief of Mission | U.S. Embassy in Colombia

The Venezuelan government has implemented a temporary closure of its land border with Colombia, effective from 12:01 a.m. on May 23, 2025. This closure is set to last for 96 hours, with plans to reopen the border at midnight on May 27, 2025. During this period, all flights between the two countries have been canceled.

The U.S. Department of State continues to advise against travel to Venezuela for American citizens. The advisory highlights risks such as illegal detentions, crime, civil unrest, kidnapping, and arbitrary enforcement of local laws. Since 2019, the U.S. Embassy in Caracas has suspended operations and withdrawn all diplomatic personnel, leaving no emergency services available for U.S. citizens in Venezuela.

U.S. citizens are encouraged to make alternative travel arrangements and avoid large gatherings or demonstrations. They are advised to remain vigilant in public spaces and stay informed through local media.

For assistance or further information, U.S. citizens can contact the U.S. Embassy in Bogotá or the U.S. Consular Agency in Barranquilla using the provided contact details. Additionally, travelers can register for updates through the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) and other communication channels offered by the U.S. Department of State.

Further details about traveling to Venezuela can be found on the official website of the U.S. Embassy in Colombia.