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 global carriers, requiring they restart operations to the country in the next two days or face revocation of their operating licenses.
Carriers Halt Services Following American Alert
Multiple international carriers suspended their flights to Venezuela after the US aviation regulator raised concerns about heightened security risks in the region.
The warning came as the US government escalated pressure by deploying military assets to the southern Caribbean, including what reports describe as enhanced naval deployment.
Affected Airlines
- Spanish airlines: Air Europa
- Brazilian carrier: Gol Airlines
- Chilean company: Latam Airlines
- Andean carrier: Avianca
- European airline: TAP Air Portugal
- Turkish carrier: Turkish Airlines
"Rescinding airlines' clearance would only isolate the country further," cautioned the global aviation body.
Security Concerns
The FAA advisory specifically mentioned concerns about flying near Caracas airport, citing deteriorating security conditions and increased military movements.
Maiquetía airport, which handles capital city flights, has seen significantly reduced international traffic despite some airlines maintaining services.
Aviation Reaction
Aviation organizations have requested Venezuelan authorities to withdraw the deadline, warning that further reduction in connectivity would harm the country.
Industry representatives stressed that member airlines had only briefly halted 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 US officials state aims to fight narcotics trade.
Naval operations have included numerous interventions against alleged narcotics shipments in regional seas since the beginning of fall.
Leadership Conflict
Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro has vehemently denounced both the naval actions and American deployment, alleging the US of attempting to overthrow him.
In recent statements, Maduro asserted that "They will not defeat Venezuela, our strength is unmatched."
The United States has consistently labeled Maduro as an illegitimate leader, citing disputed re-election that international observers deemed flawed.
Despite tensions, US President Donald Trump has left open the option for dialogue with Maduro, indicating that "at some point, we will talk with him."