New Delhi / Caracas The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) of India has issued a travel advisory urging Indian nationals to avoid all non-essential travel to Venezuela amid a rapidly deteriorating security situation in the South American nation. The advisory also cautions Indian citizens currently in Venezuela to restrict their movements, exercise extreme vigilance, and maintain close contact with the Indian Embassy in Caracas for assistance. The mission’s emergency helpline +58-412-9584288 (also available on WhatsApp) and email cons.caracas@mea.gov.in have been provided for immediate support. (MEA India)
The advisory comes in the wake of dramatic developments in Venezuela, where United States forces conducted a large-scale military operation early on January 3, resulting in the capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores. The duo was subsequently transported to the United States, where Maduro is expected to face charges related to narcotics and terrorism conspiracies in federal court in New York. (Wikipedia)
The US operation, described by Washington as a coordinated air and ground assault, involved strikes on key military installations in and around Caracas, contributing to significant explosions and widespread disruption. President Donald Trump characterized the mission as successful and stated that the United States would oversee Venezuela’s governance “until such time as we can do a safe, proper and judicious transition.” (Reuters)
Political reactions have been mixed. The Venezuelan government condemned the action as military aggression, and elements loyal to the former administration have contested the legitimacy of Maduro’s removal. Meanwhile, international responses vary, with some global leaders urging a peaceful and democratic transition of power. (Reuters)
Given these developments, the MEA’s advisory underscores the heightened security risks, advising Indian nationals to stay informed and prepared for sudden changes in the on-ground situation before considering any travel to Venezuela. (MEA India)