The Foreign & Commonwealth Office yesterday changed its advice for Britons considering travelling to Venezuela due to violent protests.
Tensions in the South American country are rising as the opposition and the government accuse each other of trying to stage a coup.
The country is currently divided into two: Chavistas, socialist followers of late President Hugo Chavez, and the United Socialist Party.
The USP is made up of Venezuelans who want to see an end to the reign of Chavez.
Yesterday, the FCO published: “[The FCO] advise against all but essential travel to the remaining areas of Venezuela, due to ongoing unrest and instability.
“As of the 1 August, all dependents of British Embassy staff have been withdrawn.
“You should consider leaving the country by normal commercial means.”
The website warned there’s a risk of significant disruption to transport links in and out of the country.
It added: “If the political situation worsens, the British embassy may be limited in the assistance that it can provide.”
Current President Maduro has proven to be less popular than his predecessor.
There have been serious clashes between police and protesters, and Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson made official comment on the situation.
Mr Johnson said: “Venezuela stands on the brink of disaster and Nicolas Maduro’s government must stop before it is too late.
“The country is turning on itself – more than 100 have died already – and democracy and basic rights are in jeopardy.
“The dubious constituent assembly vote has dramatically deepened the problems and ramped up tensions. It is time for the government to see sense and start working with the opposition on a way forward that brings the people of Venezuela back together.“
Labour MP Diane Abbott also commented on the protests in Venezuela.
Plunging oil prices and widespread corruption have left the formerly prosperous nation struggling with widespread shortages of food and medicine.
