Venezuela Delivers Final Warning to Global Carriers: Restore Services or Risk Sanctions
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The Venezuelan authorities have issued a stern warning to international airlines, demanding they restart operations to the country in the next two days or face revocation of their operating licenses.
Carriers Suspend Operations Following US Warning
Several major airlines halted their Venezuelan operations after the US aviation regulator issued a warning about increased military activity in the region.
This alert followed as the United States escalated pressure by deploying military assets to the Caribbean region, including what reports describe as significant military presence.
Impacted Carriers
- Carriers from Spain: Air Europa
- Brazilian carrier: Gol Airlines
- Chilean company: Latam Airlines
- Andean carrier: Avianca
- Portuguese operator: TAP Air Portugal
- Middle Eastern airline: Turkish Airlines
"Rescinding airlines' clearance would only increase Venezuela's isolation," cautioned the International Air Transport Association.
Safety Issues
American aviation warning specifically highlighted concerns about operating in the MaiquetÃa region, referencing deteriorating security conditions and increased military movements.
MaiquetÃa airport, which handles capital city flights, has seen dramatically decreased global connectivity despite certain carriers maintaining services.
Industry Response
Industry groups have urged Venezuelan authorities to remove the ultimatum, cautioning that further loss of air links would damage Venezuela's interests.
The association emphasized that participating carriers had only temporarily suspended operations and remained dedicated to reinstating services when conditions improve.
Growing Tensions
Bilateral tensions have worsened amid increased US military presence in the region, which US officials state aims to combat drug trafficking.
Naval operations have included numerous interventions against alleged narcotics shipments in Caribbean waters since the beginning of fall.
Leadership Conflict
Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro has vehemently denounced both the military strikes and broader US presence, accusing Washington of seeking regime change.
In recent statements, Maduro asserted that "Nobody can overcome Venezuela, our strength is unmatched."
American officials has repeatedly characterized Maduro as an illegitimate leader, referencing controversial 2024 elections that international observers deemed flawed.
Despite tensions, US President Donald Trump has not ruled out the possibility of direct talks with Maduro, suggesting that "eventually, we will talk with him."
