The Venezuelan government Delivers Ultimatum to International Airlines: Resume Flights or Risk Sanctions
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Venezuela has delivered a stern warning to global carriers, requiring they resume flights to the country in the next two days or risk losing their operating licenses.
Carriers Suspend Services Following American Alert
Several major airlines suspended their flights to Venezuela after the US aviation regulator issued a warning about increased military activity in the region.
The warning came as the United States escalated pressure by deploying military assets to the Caribbean region, including what sources indicate as significant military presence.
Impacted Carriers
- Spanish airlines: Iberia
- South American airline: Gol Airlines
- Chilean company: Latam Airlines
- Colombian airline: Avianca
- Portuguese operator: TAP Air Portugal
- Middle Eastern airline: Turkish Airlines
"Rescinding airlines' clearance would only isolate the country further," warned the global aviation body.
Security Concerns
American aviation warning specifically mentioned concerns about operating in the Maiquetía region, referencing worsening safety situation and increased military movements.
Venezuela's main international hub, which serves Caracas, has seen dramatically decreased international traffic despite certain carriers maintaining services.
Industry Response
Aviation organizations have requested Venezuelan authorities to remove the ultimatum, warning that further reduction in connectivity would damage Venezuela's interests.
Industry representatives stressed that member airlines had only temporarily suspended operations and remained dedicated to reinstating services when conditions improve.
Escalating Conflict
US-Venezuela relations have worsened amid American naval deployments in the region, which US officials state aims to combat drug trafficking.
Naval operations have included multiple strikes against suspected drug vessels in Caribbean waters since early September.
Political Standoff
Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro has strongly condemned both the military strikes and broader US presence, alleging the US of seeking regime change.
In recent statements, Maduro asserted that "Nobody can overcome Venezuela, we are invincible."
The United States has repeatedly characterized Maduro as an illegitimate leader, citing disputed re-election that international observers considered irregular.
Amid conflicts, American leader Donald Trump has not ruled out the possibility of direct talks with Maduro, indicating that "eventually, I will speak with him."
