Venezuela: Extremist opposition forces attack military outpost killing one soldier December 22

Event

Extremist opposition forces in Venezuela attacked a military outpost near the Brazilian border on Sunday, December 22, leaving one soldier dead. According to Venezuela's defense minister, some of the attackers have been detained while operations to find the remaining suspects are still ongoing as of Sunday evening (local time).

A heightened security presence is expected in the vicinity of the attack. Similar attacks are possible over the near term.

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. Following mass opposition mobilizations on November 16 throughout Venezuela, Guaidó called for daily opposition protests to demand free elections.

Advice

Individuals in Venezuela are advised to monitor developments to the situation, avoid all protests and demonstrations due to the risk of violence, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities.