Venezuela 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, requiring they restart operations to the country within 48 hours or face revocation of their flight clearances.
Carriers Suspend Services 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.
This alert followed as the US government increased tensions by sending military assets to the Caribbean region, including what sources indicate as enhanced naval deployment.
Impacted Carriers
- Carriers from Spain: Plus Ultra
- Brazilian carrier: Gol Airlines
- Chilean company: Latam Airlines
- Colombian airline: Avianca
- European airline: TAP Air Portugal
- Turkish carrier: Turkish Airlines
"Revoking flight permissions would only increase Venezuela's isolation," warned the global aviation body.
Security Concerns
American aviation warning specifically mentioned concerns about flying near Caracas airport, referencing worsening safety situation and heightened defense activities.
Maiquetía airport, which serves Caracas, has seen significantly reduced global connectivity despite some airlines continuing operations.
Aviation Reaction
Aviation organizations have requested Venezuelan authorities to remove the ultimatum, cautioning that further reduction in connectivity would damage Venezuela's interests.
Industry representatives stressed that member airlines had only temporarily suspended operations and remained dedicated to reinstating services when conditions improve.
Escalating Conflict
US-Venezuela relations have worsened amid increased US military presence in the region, which Washington claims aims to combat drug trafficking.
Naval operations have included multiple strikes against alleged narcotics shipments in regional seas since early September.
Political Standoff
Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro has vehemently denounced both the naval actions and American deployment, alleging the US of seeking regime change.
In public comments, Maduro declared that "They will not defeat Venezuela, our strength is unmatched."
The United States has repeatedly characterized Maduro as an illegitimate leader, referencing controversial 2024 elections that international observers deemed flawed.
Amid conflicts, US President Donald Trump has not ruled out the option for dialogue with Maduro, indicating that "at some point, we will talk with him."
