The Venezuelan government Issues Ultimatum to International Airlines: Restore Services or Risk Sanctions
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The Venezuelan authorities have issued a firm ultimatum to international airlines, demanding they resume flights to the country in the next two days or risk losing their operating licenses.
Airlines Halt Operations Following American Alert
Multiple international carriers halted 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 increased tensions by deploying naval forces to the Caribbean region, including what reports describe as enhanced naval deployment.
Affected Airlines
- Spanish airlines: Plus Ultra
- South American airline: Gol Airlines
- Chilean company: Latam Airlines
- Colombian airline: Avianca
- European airline: TAP Air Portugal
- Turkish carrier: 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 worsening safety situation and increased military movements.
Maiquetía airport, which handles capital city flights, has seen significantly reduced international traffic despite some airlines continuing operations.
Aviation Reaction
Aviation organizations have urged Venezuelan authorities to withdraw the deadline, warning that further loss of air links would harm the country.
Industry representatives stressed that participating carriers had only temporarily suspended operations and remained dedicated to reinstating services when conditions improve.
Escalating Conflict
US-Venezuela relations have deteriorated amid American naval deployments in the region, which Washington claims aims to combat drug trafficking.
Recent military actions have included multiple strikes against alleged narcotics shipments in regional seas since the beginning of fall.
Political Standoff
Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro has vehemently denounced both the naval actions and broader US presence, alleging the US of attempting to overthrow him.
In public comments, Maduro declared that "They will not defeat Venezuela, we are invincible."
American officials has consistently labeled Maduro as an illegitimate leader, referencing controversial 2024 elections that international observers considered irregular.
Despite tensions, American leader Donald Trump has not ruled out the option for dialogue with Maduro, suggesting that "eventually, we will talk with him."
