The United States Department of State urged U.S. citizens to depart Venezuela immediately, citing reports of armed paramilitaries targeting Americans. The security alert, issued Saturday, detailed accounts of pro-government militias, known as colectivos, establishing roadblocks and searching vehicles for U.S. citizens or those perceived as supporters.

The State Department advised U.S. citizens in Venezuela to exercise extreme caution while traveling by road. The alert emphasized the urgency of departure, noting the resumption of some international flights from Venezuela. The New York Times reported the State Department's concerns over the escalating security situation.

The warning comes a week after the reported capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro. The circumstances surrounding Maduro's capture remain unclear, but the event has seemingly triggered increased activity by colectivos, which have historically acted as enforcers for the Maduro regime. These groups, often armed and operating with impunity, have been accused of human rights abuses and suppressing dissent.

The U.S. government has long maintained a critical stance towards Maduro's government, imposing sanctions and recognizing opposition leader Juan Guaidó as the legitimate interim president. The current situation adds another layer of complexity to the already strained relationship between the two countries.

The U.S. government has not specified what actions it might take if U.S. citizens are harmed in Venezuela. The State Department continues to monitor the situation and provide updates to U.S. citizens through its website and social media channels. U.S. citizens requiring assistance are encouraged to contact the U.S. Embassy in Caracas. However, the embassy's ability to provide assistance may be limited due to the security situation.