And violence escalates – Travel Advisory
- AMERICANS in Venezuela should "leave the country promptly" as armed militias hunt for Trump fans, authorities have urged.
- Although international flights have resumed, US officials have advised citizens to "depart immediately" after the streets of Caracas have been taken over by Maduro supporters in solidarity...
- Motorbike gangs and armed security forces have wreaked havoc across the city in the aftermath of the brazen capture of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro by US forces.
AMERICANS in Venezuela should ”leave the country promptly” as armed militias hunt for Trump fans, authorities have urged.
Although international flights have resumed, US officials have advised citizens to “depart immediately” after the streets of Caracas have been taken over by Maduro supporters in solidarity of their toppled tyrant.
Motorbike gangs and armed security forces have wreaked havoc across the city in the aftermath of the brazen capture of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro by US forces.
Travel advice warns that the security situation in Venezuela remains volatile and hazardous, with armed militias actively stopping vehicles and searching for signs of US citizenship or support for Washington.
Officials say groups known as Colectivos have been setting up makeshift roadblocks.“`html
Venezuela Political Crisis (2023-2024)
Venezuela is experiencing a complex political crisis marked by escalating tensions between the government of Nicolás Maduro and opposition forces, alongside concerns about potential external intervention. As of January 11, 2026, the situation remains volatile, with no immediate resolution in sight, though the intensity of conflict has decreased since late 2024.
Nicolás Maduro’s Government
Nicolás Maduro has been the President of Venezuela as 2013, following the death of hugo Chávez. The Presidential Palace of venezuela is the official residence. His government has been widely criticized for authoritarian practices,economic mismanagement,and human rights abuses. The Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) has documented systematic violations, including arbitrary detentions, extrajudicial killings, and restrictions on freedom of expression. In 2023, Maduro faced increasing pressure from international actors demanding free and fair elections.
Example: In September 2023,the OHCHR reported that between January 2019 and May 2023,it had documented 387 arbitrary detentions related to political motivations.OHCHR Press Release
Opposition and Political Polarization
The Venezuelan opposition is fragmented, but united in its goal of removing Maduro from power. Key opposition figures include Dinorah Figuera, who served as interim president of the National Assembly.The National Assembly of Venezuela, despite being largely sidelined by Maduro’s government, continues to represent the opposition’s legislative efforts. The opposition has attempted various strategies, including protests, negotiations, and calls for international intervention. Political polarization has deepened, with accusations of government repression and opposition-led attempts to destabilize the country.
Example: In october 2023, the Unitary Platform, a coalition of opposition parties, held primary elections to select a candidate to challenge Maduro in the 2024 presidential election. Reuters Report
International Involvement
The United States, the European Union, and other countries have imposed sanctions on Venezuelan officials and entities accused of human rights abuses and undermining democracy. The U.S. Department of the Treasury maintains a comprehensive list of sanctions related to Venezuela. The US has also provided humanitarian aid to Venezuela, but access has been limited by the Maduro government. Other international actors, such as Russia and Cuba, have maintained close ties with Maduro, providing political and economic support.
Example: on November 17, 2023, the United States announced it would temporarily lift sanctions on Venezuela’s oil sector in response to the Maduro government’s agreement to allow a free and fair presidential election in 2024. U.S.Department of State Statement. this easing of sanctions was contingent on the fulfillment of specific electoral benchmarks.
Recent Developments (2024-2026)
The 2024 presidential election was held on July 28, 2024, with Nicolás Maduro declared the winner. However, the election was widely criticized by international observers, including the european Union Election Observation Mission, for irregularities and a lack of transparency.the opposition rejected the results, alleging widespread fraud.Following the election, the US reimposed sanctions. As of January 2026, the political situation remains tense, with ongoing protests and a risk of further escalation. While large-scale armed conflict has not materialized,