The U.S. Department of State has issued a Level 4 advisory for Venezuela, warning American citizens of severe risks that include crime, civil unrest, and the absence of consular support. This advisory is the highest level of travel warning, indicating that travel is not recommended. The risks listed include wrongful detention, torture in detention, terrorism, kidnapping, arbitrary enforcement of local laws, crime, civil unrest, and poor health infrastructure. Currently, more U.S. nationals are wrongfully detained in Venezuela than anywhere else in the world. In March 2019, the DOS withdrew all diplomatic personnel from the U.S. Embassy in Caracas and suspended operations, meaning there is no U.S. consulate operating in Venezuela. The U.S. government cannot provide routine or emergency consular services to U.S. citizens in Venezuela. The advisory also warns of brutal crackdowns on pro-democracy or anti-regime demonstrations by police and security forces, which include the use of tear gas, pepper spray, and rubber bullets against participants, occasionally leading to looting and vandalism. Additionally, travelers are advised to prepare a will, designate insurance beneficiaries, have a communication plan with family or their company, and consider hiring a professional security detail. The State Department also recommends avoiding Venezuela’s border areas with Colombia, Brazil, and Guyana due to the presence of Colombian terrorist groups in those regions. If you choose to travel to Venezuela, the U.S. will not be able to assist you in recovering lost, stolen, or expired travel documents. It is advised that any U.S. citizen currently in Venezuela should depart immediately.