The U.S. State Department has issued a stark advisory urging all U.S. citizens to avoid travel to Venezuela, citing “severe risks” including wrongful detention, kidnapping, and torture. The advisory states that Americans currently in the country should depart immediately.
“There is no safe way for Americans to travel to Venezuela,” the department said. “U.S. citizens have been detained upon arrival at land borders, airports, and maritime ports of entry.” The U.S. no longer maintains an embassy or consulate there and cannot offer consular assistance.
According to the department, more U.S. citizens are currently wrongfully detained in Venezuela than in any other country. Many are charged with terrorism or other serious offenses without due process. Detained citizens are frequently denied access to family, attorneys, and communication.
In some cases, Americans were detained after accidentally crossing unmarked borders from neighboring countries. The Venezuelan government does not notify the U.S. of these detentions, making intervention nearly impossible.
Other concerns include civil unrest, poor medical infrastructure, and arbitrary enforcement of local laws.
Source(s)
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CBS News – MBFC Rating
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