Venezuela: Maduro threatens border closures

Event

In a speech on Tuesday, December 19, President Nicholás Maduro threatened to cut off all means of communication with three neighboring islands - the Dutch Caribbean islands of Aruba, Bonaire, and Curacao - and close border crossings leading to the Colombian cities of Cúcuta and Maicao. Maduro believes that the Caribbean islands and Colombian cities are major trafficking hubs, from which consumer goods are smuggled into Venezuela. 

Context

Venezuela is facing an ongoing political, economic, social, and health crises.  Shortages of many basic goods have been reported across the country. Thousands of Venezuelans regularly cross the border into Colombia legally purchase goods not available in their country.

Advice

Individuals in potentially affected areas are advised to monitor the situation and anticipate potential travel disruptions.

Furthermore, individuals Venezuela are advised to closely monitor the security situation due to the risk of violence. Maintain a stockpile of enough food, water, and other supplies enabling you to shelter in place for several days in the event of a sudden deterioration in the local security situation.