U.S. issues ‘do not travel’ warning for popular South American destination

The U.S. is warning citizens against traveling to a popular South American destination.

The State Department reissued a level 4 warning – its highest alert – urging people not to travel to Venezuela. The warning cites crime, civil unrest, kidnapping and arbitrary enforcement of local laws, as well as the potential for wrongful detention and terrorism and the risk of poor health infrastructure.

Violent crimes such as homicide, armed robbery, kidnapping and carjacking have become common in the South American country with political rallies and demonstrations occurring, often with little notice. These demonstrations have prompted strong, and sometimes violent responses from the government of President Nicolás Maduro, which has used tear gas, pepper spray and rubber bullets against protesters. Shortages of gasoline, electricity, water, medicine and medical supplies are continuing.

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Terrorist groups also operate in Venezuela’s border areas with Colombia, Brazil and Guyana.

As many as 215,000 Americans traveled to Venezuela in 2022, the most recent statistics available. A decade ago, that figure topped 815,000 but numbers have fallen since 2019 when the U.S. withdrew all diplomatic personnel from the American Embassy in Caracas and suspended services for all consular services. U.S. citizens in Venezuela are urged to leave the country as soon as possible.

The warnings for anyone traveling to Venezuela are dire. Visitors are urged to develop a communication plan with their family or employer, including a “proof of life” protocol if they’re taken hostage so that loved ones will know which specific questions and answers to ask hostage takers. People are also advised to draft a will and designate appropriate insurance beneficiaries and power of attorney.