January 1, US Urges Americans Exit Venezuela Now

Wyatt’s Take

• The US government says the situation in Venezuela is dangerous and tells Americans to leave now.
• Recent action against Venezuela’s leaders has made travel and safety risks even worse for Americans there.
• Trouble on the ground includes armed groups, roadblocks, and no US help if something goes wrong.

The US State Department is urging all Americans in Venezuela to leave right away due to rising dangers throughout the country. Official warnings say that the security situation is constantly changing and travelers are at risk.

This comes after US forces captured Nicolás Maduro and his wife in a high-profile raid. Both have pleaded not guilty in a New York court to serious federal charges, including narco-terrorism.

Even with the return of some flights, Americans are told to plan ahead, keep in touch with loved ones outside the country, and make backup plans if they choose to stay.

“There are reports of groups of armed militias, known as colectivos, setting up roadblocks and searching vehicles for evidence of U.S. citizenship or support for the United States.”

The US says it can’t offer emergency services in Venezuela. The country holds a Level 4: Do Not Travel advisory, citing risks like kidnapping, arbitrary arrests, civil unrest, and poor healthcare.

The embassy in Caracas has been closed since 2019, after the US withdrew diplomats over concerns about Maduro’s leadership.

The US has increased pressure on Venezuela’s regime, including military strikes and sanctions tied to drug trafficking. Over 100 alleged narco-terrorists have been killed during these crackdowns.

Trump announced a plan to sell sanctioned Venezuelan oil, saying on social media:

“This Oil will be sold at its Market Price, and that money will be controlled by me, as President of the United States of America, to ensure it is used to benefit the people of Venezuela and the United States!”

He directed the energy secretary to get U.S. companies involved and invest in Venezuela’s oil sector. There is talk of reopening the US embassy as both countries explore restarting diplomatic ties.

Americans in Venezuela are told to keep a close eye on flight options and act fast to get out if danger escalates.

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Wyatt Matters

Folks understand what it means when the government sounds the alarm—safety comes first. This is a reminder to watch out for each other, stay alert, and always be ready. At times like this, nothing beats looking out for your own and trusting your gut.