Venezuela: Guaidó calls for military uprising April 30

Event

Juan Guaidó, Venezuela's main opposition leader has issued a call from the Caracas airbase on Tuesday, April 30, calling for the army to join the opposition. According to Guaidó, military units have joined the movement which has prompted the liberation of militant activists such as Leopoldo Lopez. The Venezuelan government is denouncing the movement as a coup d'état and internet service has reportedly been restricted.

A heightened security presence and localized disruptions to traffic are to be expected over the coming hours and days. Related protests are likely.

Context

Venezuela is experiencing an ongoing crisis spurred by President Nicolás Maduro's inauguration to a second term as president on January 10 following last year's contested election, prompting the National Assembly to declare a national emergency. At least 50 foreign governments, including the US, Canada, and Brazil, among others, have since recognized opposition leader Juan Guaidó as the interim head of state.

Advice

Individuals in Venezuela are advised to monitor situational developments, adhere to instructions issued by their home governments, keep battery-operated devices fully charged whenever possible due to periodic power outages, remain vigilant for criminal behaviour and avoid conspicuous displays of wealth. Individuals are also encouraged to refrain from discussing political topics in public or on social media, and avoid all public demonstrations due to the risk of violence and arrest.

The security situation in Venezuela remains complex. Professional security advice and support should be sought prior to travel.