Japan Issues Urgent Travel Warning for Venezuela Following US Military Action and Presidential Abduction

Japan Raises Travel Advisory for Venezuela

Tokyo, Japan – Japan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs has issued a stringent Level 3 travel advisory for Venezuela, urging all Japanese citizens to 'refrain from traveling' to the South American nation and advising those already present to 'consider evacuation' amidst rapidly escalating instability. The warning, issued on January 3, 2026, comes in the wake of a significant military operation by the United States within Venezuelan territory, which included the capture of the country's president.

The ministry's advisory highlighted the 'highly uncertain' local situation, citing a US military assault on Venezuela and the 'shocking abduction' of its president and first lady. Explosions were reported in military facilities in Caracas, and the Venezuelan government has declared a state of emergency.

US Military Operation and Presidential Capture

On January 3, 2026, the United States launched a large-scale military operation, reportedly codenamed 'Operation Absolute Resolve,' targeting Venezuela. During this operation, Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, were captured by US forces from their residence in Caracas. They were subsequently flown to New York City to face federal charges.

US Attorney General Pam Bondi announced that Maduro and Flores have been indicted on multiple charges, including narcoterrorism, cocaine trafficking, and possession of machine guns and destructive devices, superseding a 2020 indictment. US President Donald Trump stated that the US would 'run the country' temporarily to ensure a 'safe, proper, and judicious transition,' with a particular focus on Venezuela's vast oil reserves.

Venezuelan and International Reactions

In response to the events, Venezuela's Supreme Court ordered Vice President Delcy Rodríguez to assume the role of acting President. Rodríguez condemned Maduro's capture as 'barbaric' and 'illegal and illegitimate.' The United Nations Secretary-General expressed 'deep alarm' over the escalation, calling it a 'dangerous precedent' and raising concerns about violations of international law. Both China and North Korea have also issued condemnations of the US military action.

Japan's Measures for Citizen Safety

The Japanese Foreign Ministry has advised its citizens in Venezuela to take immediate precautions, including:

• Avoiding unnecessary outings.
• Staying informed about the latest developments.
• Prioritizing personal safety.
• Considering stockpiling water, food, and fuel.

The ministry also established a liaison office in Tokyo and at the Japanese Embassy in Venezuela to gather information and provide assistance to the approximately 160 Japanese citizens residing in the country. As of the latest reports, no Japanese casualties have been confirmed. Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi indicated that Japan would engage in diplomatic efforts to restore democracy and stability in Venezuela, working in conjunction with Group of Seven (G7) nations and other concerned countries.