Additional Coverage:
- US issues urgent ‘do not travel’ warnings for 2 countries ahead of late spring breaks (irishstar.com)
The U.S. State Department has issued a stark warning to Americans with upcoming travel plans, raising the threat level to 4 for parts of two countries.
This heightened alert signifies a serious risk to U.S. citizens in these specific areas. Escalating crime, terrorism, and civil unrest prompted the State Department’s decision.
Colombia
While Colombia maintains an overall travel advisory level of 3 (“reconsider travel”), certain regions have been elevated to level 4 (“do not travel”). These areas include Arauca, Cauca (excluding Popayán), and Norte de Santander, where crime and terrorism are rampant.
The Colombia-Venezuela border is also designated level 4 due to crime, kidnappings, armed conflict, and the risk of detention by Venezuelan authorities. Throughout much of Colombia, violent crime such as murder, assault, and robbery is common.
Organized crime, including extortion and kidnapping, is also widespread. The State Department further warns of the risk of terrorist attacks and civil unrest, which can disrupt travel.
U.S. government personnel in Colombia face travel restrictions, highlighting the seriousness of the security situation.
Burkina Faso
The entire country of Burkina Faso is now designated level 4 due to terrorism, crime, and kidnapping. Terrorist groups are active throughout the country, and attacks can occur anywhere without warning.
Kidnapping is a persistent threat, particularly in the Sahel and East regions. Several regions are under states of emergency, and the U.S. government’s ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens is limited.
Even in the capital city of Ouagadougou, U.S. government personnel are discouraged from traveling to certain neighborhoods at night due to high crime rates. Dual U.S.-Burkina Faso citizens may not have their U.S. citizenship recognized.
The State Department strongly urges Americans not to travel to Burkina Faso.