The university and International Safety and Security have been monitoring U.S. military action in Venezuela, which occurred on the morning of January 3, 2026. The situation is still developing and the regional security effects are unclear at this time. Winter break education abroad activities in the Caribbean, Central America, and South America are proceeding as planned.
The university will continue to monitor the situation and maintain communication with partners and study abroad program leadership in the region to assess the need for program modifications to promote safety or address logistical issues like flight cancellations and delays.
If you would like more information about support resources for university travelers, you can call the international insurance to access remote counseling services, use the Telus Health app offered through Campus Wellbeing, or ask your program leaders for assistance connecting to support resources available to Illinois students abroad. If anyone feels unsafe in your study abroad program location, you can talk to your program leader or reach out to International Safety and Security (safetyabroad@illinois.edu) to discuss your concerns.
For the most up-to-date information about what is happening in the region, monitor local or national media. All university travelers abroad are encouraged to enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) through the U.S. Department of State to receive security messages from the U.S. embassy or consulate in your host country. Additionally, you can review messaging on U.S. embassy websites and social media accounts.
International Safety and Security is available to discuss the general security situation in the region with concerned supporters. They can email International Safety and Security at safetyabroad@illinois.edu.