The U.S. government has issued a stern warning to its citizens, advising against travel to Venezuela due to significant safety concerns. The country is currently under a Level 4: Do Not Travel advisory, the highest level of alert. The risks include wrongful detention, torture, terrorism, kidnapping, arbitrary enforcement of local laws, crime, civil unrest, and inadequate health infrastructure.
"More U.S. nationals are currently wrongfully detained in Venezuela than in any other country," states the advisory. It also highlights that foreign nationals frequently face unjust detentions in Venezuela.
U.S. citizens who are already in Venezuela are urged to leave immediately as there is no operational U.S. embassy or consulate within the country to provide routine or emergency services.
The borders between Venezuela and neighboring countries Colombia, Brazil, and Guyana pose additional risks due to unclear demarcations. Travelers risk inadvertently crossing into Venezuelan territory and facing detention.
"There is no safe way for Americans to travel to Venezuela," warns the advisory further noting that American citizens may face charges of terrorism or other serious crimes upon entry at various points including land borders and airports.
Venezuelan authorities reportedly do not notify the U.S. government when detaining American citizens nor allow them contact with family members or private attorneys.
In light of these circumstances, "the U.S. Department of State recommends that all U.S. citizens in Venezuela leave immediately."
For those seeking more information on this issue, it is advised to consult the full Travel Advisory for Venezuela.