The Venezuelan government Issues Ultimatum to International Airlines: Restore Services or Risk Sanctions
Airport image credit
Venezuela has delivered a stern warning to international airlines, requiring they resume flights to the country within 48 hours or risk losing their operating licenses.
Airlines Suspend Operations Following American Alert
Multiple international carriers suspended their Venezuelan operations after the US aviation regulator raised concerns about heightened security risks in the region.
The warning came as the US government increased tensions by deploying naval forces to the southern Caribbean, including what reports describe as significant military presence.
Impacted Carriers
- Spanish airlines: Air Europa
- South American airline: Gol Airlines
- Latin American operator: Latam Airlines
- Colombian airline: Avianca
- Portuguese operator: TAP Air Portugal
- Turkish carrier: Turkish Airlines
"Revoking flight permissions would only isolate the country further," warned the global aviation body.
Security Concerns
American aviation warning specifically highlighted concerns about flying near Caracas airport, referencing worsening safety situation and heightened defense activities.
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, cautioning that further loss of air links would harm the country.
The association emphasized that participating carriers had only temporarily suspended operations and remained committed to restoring services when conditions improve.
Escalating Conflict
US-Venezuela relations have deteriorated amid increased US military presence in the region, which Washington claims aims to fight narcotics trade.
Naval operations have included multiple strikes against suspected drug vessels in regional seas since the beginning of fall.
Political Standoff
National leader Nicolás Maduro has vehemently denounced both the military strikes and American deployment, alleging the US of seeking regime change.
In recent statements, Maduro declared that "Nobody can overcome Venezuela, our strength is unmatched."
The United States has repeatedly characterized Maduro as an undemocratic ruler, citing disputed re-election that global monitors considered irregular.
Amid conflicts, American leader Donald Trump has not ruled out the option for dialogue with Maduro, indicating that "at some point, we will talk with him."