Venezuela Delivers Final Warning to Global Carriers: Restore Services or Risk Sanctions
Airport photo credit
Venezuela has delivered a stern warning to global carriers, requiring they resume flights to the country in the next two days or face revocation of their operating licenses.
Carriers Suspend Operations Following American Alert
Multiple international carriers halted their flights to Venezuela after the US aviation regulator raised concerns about increased military activity in the region.
The warning came as the US government escalated pressure by sending military assets to the Caribbean region, including what sources indicate as significant military presence.
Impacted Carriers
- Carriers from Spain: Plus Ultra
- South American airline: Gol Airlines
- Latin American operator: Latam Airlines
- Andean carrier: Avianca
- European airline: TAP Air Portugal
- Middle Eastern airline: Turkish Airlines
"Rescinding airlines' clearance would only increase Venezuela's isolation," cautioned the global aviation body.
Security Concerns
American aviation warning specifically mentioned concerns about operating in the Maiquetía region, referencing deteriorating security conditions and heightened defense activities.
Venezuela's main international hub, which handles capital city flights, has seen significantly reduced international traffic despite certain carriers maintaining services.
Aviation Reaction
Aviation organizations have requested Venezuelan authorities to remove the ultimatum, cautioning that further reduction in connectivity would damage Venezuela's interests.
The association emphasized that member airlines had only briefly halted operations and remained committed to restoring services when situation stabilizes.
Growing Tensions
US-Venezuela relations have worsened amid increased US military presence in the region, which US officials state aims to combat drug trafficking.
Recent military actions have included multiple strikes against suspected drug vessels in regional seas since the beginning of fall.
Leadership Conflict
National leader Nicolás Maduro has vehemently denounced both the naval actions 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 undemocratic ruler, citing disputed re-election that global monitors considered irregular.
Despite tensions, US President Donald Trump has left open the option for dialogue with Maduro, indicating that "eventually, we will talk with him."
