The US Department of State announced on 10/1, "The security situation in Venezuela remains unstable. The US Embassy in Bogota, Colombia, advises US citizens not to travel to Venezuela. International flights have resumed, and US citizens in Venezuela should leave the country immediately."

This call for citizens to leave Venezuela was issued one week after the US launched an operation into Caracas to apprehend President Nicolas Maduro and his wife, transporting them to New York. The Maduros are currently held at a Brooklyn prison while awaiting their next hearing on various charges, including drug-related offenses.

According to the department, before departure, US citizens should exercise caution and be aware of their surroundings. There are reports that armed militia groups, also known as colectivos, are setting up checkpoints and searching vehicles for Americans or evidence of support for Washington.

The US Department of State added, "US citizens in Venezuela should remain vigilant and exercise caution when traveling by road. Power outages and utility service disruptions continue across the country."

The US currently imposes its highest travel advisory level for Venezuela due to "serious risks."

Supporters of President Nicolas Maduro march in the capital Caracas on 10/1. Photo: AFP

In 3/2019, the US Department of State withdrew all diplomatic personnel from its embassy in Caracas and suspended its operations. All consular activities in Venezuela remain suspended, preventing the US government from providing emergency services to its citizens in the country.

The exact number of US citizens currently in Venezuela is unknown. The US oil corporation Chevron has maintained operations in Venezuela for decades.

About 1,000 Maduro supporters continued to march in Caracas on 10/1, calling for the release of President Maduro and his wife. Interim President Delcy Rodriguez stated on television that she would "work tirelessly until the President returns."

Some US diplomats arrived in Caracas on 9/1 to discuss reopening the embassy. The Venezuelan government did not disclose whether the US delegation met with Rodriguez.

Huyen Le (According to AFP, US Embassy)