Security Alert: U.S. Embassy Bogota – Exercise Caution Ahead of Venezuelan Presidential Election July 28, 2024
Location: Venezuela, countrywide
The U.S. Department of State continues to advise citizens not to travel to Venezuela. The U.S. government has no ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in Venezuela. The recommendation against travel to Venezuela for U.S. citizens is based on crime, civil unrest, kidnapping, and the arbitrary enforcement of local laws.
The Venezuelan presidential election is scheduled to be held on July 28. Leading up to and on the day of the presidential election, there is the potential for traffic disruptions and shortages of fuel and electricity. Voting centers will be safeguarded by the military (FANB) before and after the July 28 election. On election day, law enforcement and peacekeeping duties will be performed exclusively by the military, with police forces falling under the military’s supervision.
A July 18, 2024, joint resolution of Nicolas Maduro’s ministries of defense and interior has prohibited public meetings, demonstrations, concentrations of people and any other similar act that may disturb or affect the electoral process throughout Venezuela from 12:01 a.m. on Friday, July 26, 2024, until 11:59 p.m. on Monday, July 29, 2024. In addition, during that same period, those attempting to cross at land, sea and air borders should expect heightened scrutiny and plan for possible delays. Finally, alcohol sales are also prohibited during that period.
The U.S. Government notes the announcement of large political rallies to be held in Caracas on July 25, 2024. Other events are expected to take place around the country. We advise U.S. citizens to avoid areas around rallies and demonstrations whenever possible and exercise caution when in the vicinity of any large gatherings.
In 2019, the U.S. Department of State withdrew all diplomatic personnel from U.S. Embassy Caracas and suspended operations. All consular services, routine and emergency, remain suspended until further notice.
Actions to Take:
Do not travel to Venezuela.
Bearing in mind the U.S. government has no ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in Venezuela, if you decide to travel to Venezuela during the elections, follow the guidance found in the
Travel Advisory and:
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Avoid crowds and demonstrations.
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Comply with local regulations.
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Maintain a high level of vigilance, especially in popular public areas.
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Monitor local media for updates.
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Plan alternative routes.
Assistance:
U.S. Department of State – Consular Affairs
1-888-407-4747 or 1-202-501-4444
