Venezuela and the United States are engaged in a public dispute over security concerns, following a U.S. alert regarding the potential targeting of American citizens by armed groups within Venezuela. The alert prompted a response from Caracas, which dismissed the U.S. claims as unfounded.
Conflicting Assessments
The U.S. Department of State updated its travel advisory for Venezuela on Saturday, maintaining its highest level of risk designation. The advisory cited reports of armed militias searching for U.S. citizens or evidence of support for the United States. U.S. citizens were urged to depart the country immediately, particularly as international flights resume.
Venezuela’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs countered that the U.S. alert was based on “nonexistent accounts” intended to create a false perception of risk. The Ministry asserted that all weapons within the country are under the control of the Venezuelan government, which it described as the sole legitimate authority for maintaining peace and security.
The Venezuelan government stated that the nation is experiencing “absolute calm, peace and stability,” with all essential infrastructure functioning normally. It reaffirmed its commitment to protecting peace and institutional stability.
Diplomatic Overtures Amidst Tension
Despite the security concerns, both countries have indicated a willingness to explore diplomatic channels. On Friday, Venezuela announced the start of a “process of exploratory diplomatic contact” with the U.S., aimed at restoring diplomatic missions. A U.S. delegation from the Department of State has arrived in Venezuela, and Caracas plans to send a delegation to Washington.
The current situation follows the capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and the establishment of an interim executive body led by Vice President Delcy Rodríguez, a development that occurred one week prior to the U.S. alert.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the U.S. advising its citizens to do?
The U.S. Department of State is urging all American citizens to leave Venezuela immediately, or to avoid travel there altogether. Those who remain are advised to exercise extreme caution, particularly when traveling by road.
What is Venezuela’s response to the U.S. alert?
Venezuela’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has dismissed the U.S. alert as being based on “nonexistent accounts” and maintains that the country is calm and secure.
Are diplomatic talks currently underway between the U.S. and Venezuela?
Yes, both countries have announced the start of a “process of exploratory diplomatic contact” with the goal of potentially restoring diplomatic missions. Delegations from both nations are expected to travel to each other’s capitals.
Given the recent developments and ongoing dialogue, what role might diplomacy play in easing tensions between Venezuela and the United States?
