The United States urged its citizens to depart Venezuela immediately following reports that armed paramilitaries were attempting to locate U.S. citizens. The State Department issued a security alert on Saturday, citing reports of armed members 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 remain vigilant and exercise caution when traveling by road. It specifically urged them to leave the country immediately, noting the resumption of some international flights from Venezuela.

The warning comes a week after the reported capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro. The State Department's alert did not specify who was believed to be holding Maduro or the motivations behind the alleged targeting of U.S. citizens.

The term "colectivos" refers to armed, pro-government civilian groups that have been active in Venezuela for years. They are often accused of using violence and intimidation to suppress dissent and maintain political control. Their alleged involvement in setting up roadblocks and searching for U.S. citizens raises concerns about the safety and security of Americans in the country.

The U.S. government has long maintained a strained relationship with the Maduro regime, imposing sanctions and diplomatic pressure in response to concerns about human rights abuses, corruption, and democratic backsliding. The current situation further complicates the already tense relationship between the two countries.

It remains unclear who is currently in control of Venezuela following the reported capture of Maduro. The situation is fluid and potentially dangerous, prompting the U.S. government to take precautionary measures to protect its citizens. The State Department continues to monitor the situation closely and provide updates to U.S. citizens in Venezuela. The U.S. embassy in Caracas is operating with limited capacity, further complicating efforts to assist Americans seeking to leave the country.