The United States urged its citizens to depart Venezuela immediately following reports that armed paramilitary groups are actively seeking out U.S. citizens. The State Department issued a security alert on Saturday, citing reports of pro-government militias, known as colectivos, establishing roadblocks and searching vehicles for evidence of U.S. citizenship or support.

The alert advised U.S. citizens in Venezuela to exercise extreme caution while traveling, particularly by road, and to take advantage of the resumption of some international flights to leave the country as soon as possible. The warning comes a week after the reported capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro.

Colectivos are armed civilian groups that often operate with the tacit support of the Maduro regime. They have been implicated in acts of violence and intimidation against political opponents and perceived enemies of the government. Their presence and activities have contributed to a climate of fear and instability in Venezuela.

The State Department's warning reflects growing concerns about the safety and security of U.S. citizens in Venezuela. The already precarious situation has been exacerbated by the recent political turmoil and the increased activity of these paramilitary groups. The U.S. government has consistently advised against travel to Venezuela due to crime, civil unrest, and arbitrary detention.

The situation in Venezuela remains fluid and unpredictable. The U.S. government continues to monitor the situation closely and will provide updated guidance to U.S. citizens as needed. U.S. citizens who choose to remain in Venezuela despite the warning are urged to register with the State Department's Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive security updates and facilitate communication in case of emergency.