The U.S. government has issued a warning to its citizens against traveling to Venezuela, citing severe risks that have led to the highest Travel Advisory level – Level 4: Do Not Travel. The advisory highlights significant dangers including wrongful detention, torture in detention, terrorism, kidnapping, arbitrary enforcement of local laws, crime, civil unrest, and inadequate health infrastructure.
According to the advisory, "More U.S. nationals are currently wrongfully detained in Venezuela than in any other country." It also notes that foreign nationals face similar risks of unjust detention. The absence of a U.S. Embassy or consulate in Venezuela further complicates matters as the U.S. government cannot provide routine or emergency consular services.
The borders between Venezuela and neighboring countries Colombia, Brazil, and Guyana pose additional threats due to unclear demarcations which could lead to accidental crossings and subsequent detentions. The advisory stresses that "U.S. citizens are at extreme risk of detention when entering Venezuela at any location."
There have been instances where U.S. citizens were detained upon arrival at various entry points such as land borders, airports, and maritime ports without being informed by Venezuelan authorities or allowed contact with family members or private attorneys.
The Department of State urges all U.S. citizens currently in Venezuela to leave immediately for their safety.