### U.S. Urges Immediate Departure of Citizens from Venezuela Amid Rising Security Threats The U.S. Department of State has issued an urgent warning for American citizens in Venezuela to leave the country immediately. This advisory comes in the wake of escalating security concerns following the recent capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro by U.S. forces. The situation has become increasingly volatile, with reports of armed militias, known as "colectivos," setting up roadblocks and actively searching for U.S. citizens. The State Department has classified the security situation as "fluid" and has reiterated that international flights have resumed, making it imperative for Americans to exit Venezuela without delay [https://www.livemint.com/news/world/us-tells-americans-to-leave-venezuela-immediately-warns-against-colectivos-severe-risks-to-citizens-11768090683393.html][https://www.mediaite.com/media/news/us-urges-americans-to-leave-venezuela-immediately-due-to-severe-safety-risks]. ### Breakdown of the Current Situation and U.S. Response 1. **Security Advisory Issued**: The U.S. State Department has classified the security situation in Venezuela as a Level 4 "Do Not Travel" advisory, urging all American citizens to leave immediately due to severe risks from armed militias and potential kidnappings [https://www.outlookindia.com/international/us-urges-its-citizens-to-leave-venezuela-amid-militia-roadblocks]. 2. **Recent Military Action**: The warning follows a U.S. military operation that resulted in the capture of Nicolás Maduro, which has led to increased unrest and protests from his supporters [https://www.malaymail.com/news/world/2026/01/11/us-urges-citizens-to-leave-venezuela-immediately-amid-security-fears]. 3. **Reports of Armed Militias**: There are ongoing reports of armed groups, particularly the colectivos, setting up checkpoints and searching vehicles for evidence of U.S. citizenship or support, heightening fears for the safety of American citizens [https://www.emptywheel.net/2026/01/10/no-one-could-have-anticipated-venezuelan-edition][https://www.freepressjournal.in/world/us-govt-issues-urgent-alert-americans-in-venezuela-told-to-leave-immediately-due-to-risks]. 4. **International Flights Resumed**: The State Department has noted that international flights have resumed, providing an opportunity for Americans to leave the country [https://24newshd.tv/11-jan-2026/us-urges-americans-leave-venezuela-immediately-due-risk]. ### Supporting Evidence and Data - **Travel Advisory Level**: The U.S. has issued a Level 4 travel advisory for Venezuela, indicating a "Do Not Travel" status due to the severe risks present [https://www.newkerala.com/news/a/us-urges-americans-leave-venezuela-immediately-due-risks-682.htm]. - **Recent Events**: The capture of Maduro occurred on January 3, 2026, and has led to significant unrest, prompting the U.S. to act swiftly in advising its citizens [https://www.themirror.com/news/us-news/breaking-citizens-venezuela-told-leave-1610935]. - **Militia Activity**: Reports indicate that armed militias are actively searching for U.S. citizens, creating a dangerous environment for Americans remaining in the country [https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2026/jan/10/us-citizens-venezuela-paramilitaries]. ### Conclusion and Recommendations In summary, the U.S. government has taken decisive action to protect its citizens in Venezuela by issuing an immediate departure advisory due to escalating security threats. The situation is characterized by: 1. **Increased Risks**: Armed militias are actively targeting U.S. citizens, necessitating immediate action. 2. **Recent Military Operations**: The capture of Maduro has destabilized the region, leading to protests and unrest. 3. **Travel Opportunities**: With international flights resuming, Americans are urged to leave as soon as possible. **It is crucial for U.S. citizens in Venezuela to heed this warning and prioritize their safety by departing the country immediately** [https://www.anews.com.tr/americas/2026/01/11/us-urges-americans-to-immediately-leave-venezuela-citing-security-situation].