Security Alerts and Rising Threats

On Saturday, the State Department released a security alert stating that armed members of pro-regime militias, known as colectivos, have been setting up roadblocks and searching vehicles for U.S. citizens or those supportive of the opposition. The alert advised, “U.S. citizens in Venezuela should remain vigilant and exercise caution when traveling by road,” emphasizing the urgency for them to depart, especially now that some international flights have resumed.

Political Reactions and Implications

In an interview with News, former President Donald Trump expressed an interest in visiting Venezuela in the future, claiming the U.S. was “running” the South American country after a military operation targeting its leadership. “I think at some point it’ll be safe,” he noted, highlighting a potential shift in U.S. foreign affairs strategy.

However, the ongoing volatility of the situation was underscored by the recent military raid that resulted in numerous casualties.

Public Reaction and Government Statements

While many opponents of Maduro’s regime have celebrated his capture, government supporters have taken to the streets, denouncing the operation as an act of imperialism. In response to the U.S. security alert, Venezuela’s foreign ministry dismissed the warning as “fabricated accounts aimed at creating a perception of risk that does not exist,” asserting that “Venezuela is in absolute calm, peace, and stability.”

The ministry further claimed that all security operations are functioning normally, stating that the Bolivarian government maintains control over all aspects of civil order.

Recent Developments

Reports from Caracas indicate that rifle-carrying members of the colectivos are patrolling the capital on motorbikes, setting up checkpoints and monitoring traffic. The roads connecting Caracas to the western border are heavily policed with military and police presence.

State Department officials made a visit to Caracas on Friday, believed to be part of preparations for reopening the U.S. embassy. Acting President Delcy Rodríguez has called for improved relations with Washington despite the turbulent circumstances surrounding Maduro’s abduction.

In a separate development, Maduro himself has claimed he is “doing well” in a U.S. jail, as he and his wife Cilia Flores await trial. His son, Nicolás Maduro Guerra, relayed this sentiment in a video released by the ruling PSUV party, indicating that they remain defiant.