The U.S. government has issued a stern warning advising its citizens against traveling to Venezuela, citing the country's highest Travel Advisory level, Level 4: Do Not Travel. This advisory highlights significant risks for Americans, including wrongful detention, torture during 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 nation. It also notes that foreign nationals face similar threats of unjust detention. In light of these concerns, the Department of State is urging U.S. citizens in Venezuela to leave immediately.
A critical aspect of the advisory is the absence of a functioning U.S. embassy or consulate within Venezuela. Consequently, the U.S. government cannot provide routine or emergency consular services to its citizens there.
Another concern raised involves Venezuelan borders with Colombia, Brazil, and Guyana. These borders are often poorly marked and pose a risk for accidental crossing into Venezuela and potential detention.
The advisory further warns that U.S. citizens face extreme risks of being detained upon entry into Venezuela via land borders, airports, or maritime ports of entry. There have been instances where individuals were unjustly charged with terrorism or other serious offenses and subsequently held for extended periods.
Additionally, Venezuelan authorities do not notify the U.S. government when American citizens are detained nor allow contact with family members or private attorneys.
In conclusion, the Department of State's recommendation is unequivocal: all U.S. citizens currently in Venezuela should depart without delay and avoid all Venezuelan borders.