Venezuela: Officials close border with Aruba, Curaçao, and Bonaire Feb. 19

Event

Venezuelan authorities reportedly closed the maritime border with the countries of Aruba, Curaçao, and Bonaire, on Tuesday, February 19. Reports indicate air and maritime travel from the aforementioned countries were disrupted by the order. As such, border crossings are not guaranteed amid a heightened security presence at points of entry in Venezuela.

Context

Venezuelan officials indicate the border closure was implemented to prevent deliveries of humanitarian aid, as many have speculated aid shipments were expected to be transferred from Curaçao in the coming days.

The ongoing crisis was spurred by 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. Guaidó has reportedly coordinated several deliveries of humanitarian aid from neighboring states, all of which have been blocked by the Maduro regime.  

Advice

Travelers are advised to keep abreast of the situation and avoid traveling to Venezuela from Aruba, Curaçao, and Bonaire until the situation normalizes.