Venezuela Delivers Ultimatum to International Airlines: Resume Flights or Risk Sanctions
Aviation photo source
Venezuela has delivered a firm ultimatum to international airlines, demanding they resume flights to the country in the next two days or risk losing their flight clearances.
Airlines Suspend Services Following US Warning
Several major airlines halted their flights to Venezuela after the American FAA raised concerns about heightened security risks in the region.
This alert followed as the US government escalated pressure by deploying naval forces to the Caribbean region, including what sources indicate as significant military presence.
Affected Airlines
- Spanish airlines: Iberia
- Brazilian carrier: Gol Airlines
- Chilean company: Latam Airlines
- Colombian airline: Avianca
- European airline: TAP Air Portugal
- Middle Eastern airline: Turkish Airlines
"Rescinding airlines' clearance would only increase Venezuela's isolation," warned the global aviation body.
Security Concerns
American aviation warning specifically highlighted concerns about operating in the Maiquetía region, referencing deteriorating security conditions and increased military movements.
Maiquetía airport, which serves Caracas, has seen dramatically decreased international traffic despite some airlines continuing operations.
Industry Response
Aviation organizations have urged Venezuelan authorities to withdraw the deadline, warning that further loss of air links would damage Venezuela's interests.
The association emphasized that participating carriers had only briefly halted operations and remained dedicated to reinstating services when conditions improve.
Growing Tensions
Bilateral tensions have deteriorated amid American naval deployments in the region, which Washington claims aims to combat drug trafficking.
Recent military actions have included numerous interventions against suspected drug vessels in Caribbean waters since early September.
Political Standoff
Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro has vehemently denounced both the military strikes and broader US presence, alleging the US of seeking regime change.
In recent statements, Maduro declared that "Nobody can overcome Venezuela, we are invincible."
The United States has consistently labeled Maduro as an illegitimate leader, citing disputed re-election that global monitors deemed flawed.
Amid conflicts, American leader Donald Trump has left open the option for dialogue with Maduro, suggesting that "eventually, we will talk with him."
