Canada issues new travel advisory warning against all travel to Venezuela due to heightened security risks, including violent crime, political instability, and economic challenges. The Canadian government emphasizes the dangers of traveling to Venezuela, citing risks such as arbitrary detention, shortages of essential supplies, and escalating tensions. Several airlines have suspended flights to the country, and the Canadian Embassy in Venezuela has been closed since 2019, limiting consular assistance to Canadians remotely.
The advisory specifically warns against travel to Simón Bolívar International Airport in Caracas due to frequent incidents of violent crime, including kidnappings and armed robberies targeting foreigners. Furthermore, the advisory cautions travelers about potential risks in border regions:
– Guyana: Travelers should avoid discussing the Guayana Esequiba dispute and exercise caution in the volatile border area.
– Colombia: The Colombia-Venezuela border is marked by armed criminal groups engaged in illegal activities, posing risks of extortion and kidnapping.
– Brazil: Concerns of smuggling and drug trafficking exist along the Brazil-Venezuela border.
The Canadian government highlights the high levels of violent crime, kidnapping, fraud, and service disruptions in Venezuela, emphasizing the country’s alarming homicide rate and the prevalence of express kidnappings. In view of these security threats, the U.S. government has also issued an advisory urging its citizens to avoid travel to Venezuela due to various risks, including wrongful detention, terrorism, and civil unrest.
The recent escalation of military strikes in Venezuela, targeting military facilities in Caracas and other states, prompted Canada to update its travel advisory on January 3, reflecting the deteriorating security situation in the country.
