U.S. Orders Citizens to Leave Venezuela Immediately Amid Militia Threats
By Lions Roar News Foreign Desk
WASHINGTON D.C. (January 11, 2026) — The United States Department of State has issued an urgent directive to all U.S. citizens currently in Venezuela, ordering them to depart the country immediately. With international flights having recently resumed, officials are urging Americans to utilize these routes to exit the country without delay.
The mandate comes in response to a volatile and rapidly deteriorating security situation that poses a direct threat to foreign nationals.
⚠️ Targeted by Armed Militias
The U.S. Embassy in Venezuela released a concurrent statement warning of the specific dangers posed by armed pro-government militia groups known as “Colectivos.”
- Illegal Roadblocks: Reports indicate that these armed groups have established checkpoints across various regions to monitor movement.
- Targeted Screening: Militias are reportedly searching for evidence of U.S. citizenship or ties to U.S. interests.
- Heightened Surveillance: The Embassy has advised citizens to maintain a high level of situational awareness and exercise extreme caution when traveling locally.
🛡️ Urgent Safety Protocols
For those unable to leave immediately, the U.S. government has provided the following safety guidelines:
- Communication: Establish multiple redundant methods of communication with family and friends outside the country.
- Avoid Travel: U.S. citizens planning to visit Venezuela are strictly advised to cancel their trips. The country remains under a “Level 4: Do Not Travel” advisory.
- Pre-Departure: Take all necessary precautions and verify flight status frequently, as the window for international departures could close without notice.
📍 Geopolitical Context
The security environment in Venezuela has remained unstable following years of political and economic turmoil. The re-emergence of aggressive militia activity targeting Westerners marks a significant escalation in risk, prompting this rare and urgent evacuation order.
