U.S. Orders "Immediate" Departure from Venezuela, Citing Danger

The U.S. State Department has issued a stark new warning for American citizens in Venezuela. It is urging them to leave the country "immediately" due to a deteriorating security situation. The warning cites risks of crime, civil unrest, and the potential for wrongful detention of U.S. nationals. It also highlights the limited ability of the U.S. government to provide emergency services there. Venezuela's government has strongly rejected the U.S. travel advisory. In a statement, it called the alert "based on non-existent accounts aimed at fabricating a perception of risk." Tensions between the two nations have been high for years. This public disagreement over the safety of travelers further highlights the strained diplomatic relationship.