US urges Americans to leave Venezuela immediately as armed militias set up roadblocks

WASHINGTON, DC: US citizens living in Venezuela have been told to leave right away because the security situation is deteriorating and the Embassy cannot give emergency help.

They emphasized that departures should occur as soon as possible, now that international flights are resuming operations. They wrote, "Before departure, US citizens should take precautions and be aware of their surroundings."

Venezuela remains under a Level 4 “Do Not Travel” advisory, the highest threat level, due to dangers such as crime, kidnapping, civil unrest, t********, and restricted access to medical care. The order followed after the capture of Nicole Maduro.

US warns Americans to leave Venezuela immediately

A security notice titled “Security Alert Venezuela: January 10, 2026: Do Not Travel to Venezuela; Depart Immediately” was shared by the US Embassy in Caracas, warning that conditions in Venezuela are unstable and unsafe for Americans. 

It states, "The security situation in Venezuela remains fluid. The US Embassy in Bogota, Colombia, warns US citizens not to travel to Venezuela, reiterating warnings against travel to Venezuela dating to 2019. As international flights have resumed, US citizens in Venezuela should leave the country immediately. Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program to receive security updates." 

The alert advises citizens to be cautious before they leave and to pay close attention to what’s happening around them. "Before departure, US citizens should take precautions and be aware of their surroundings."  "There are reports of groups of armed militias, known as colectivos, setting up roadblocks and searching vehicles for evidence of US citizenship or support for the United States.  US citizens in Venezuela should remain vigilant and exercise caution when traveling by road."

The notice also explains how diplomatic support is limited: "In March 2019, the US Department of State withdrew all diplomatic personnel from US Embassy Caracas and suspended operations.  All consular services in Venezuela, routine and emergency, remain suspended.  The US government continues to be unable to provide emergency services to US citizens in Venezuela."

Alongside the alert, the embassy listed six safety recommendations and contact information for those needing assistance, including (+57)-601-275-2000 and, for people calling from the U.S. or Canada, 1‑888‑407‑4747

Operation absolute resolve leads to capture of Nicolas Maduro and Cilia Flores

Military forces struck targets in Venezuela early on January 3 and captured President Nicolas Maduro along with his wife, Cilia Flores. The operation was called Operation Absolute Resolve. It began in the early morning when explosions were reported around 2 am local time as key military and strategic sites were hit and secured.

Once taken into custody, Maduro and Cilia Flores were brought to a federal courthouse in lower Manhattan. There, they pleaded not guilty to federal drug trafficking and related charges. Their next court date is set for March 17.

In the aftermath, Trump stated, "We're in charge" of Venezuela right now. Marco Rubio emphasized that the US would not directly govern the country but would apply strong influence through measures such as an oil quarantine. Pete Hegseth added, "President Trump sets the terms."