Venezuela Delivers Ultimatum to Global Carriers: Restore Services or Face Consequences
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Venezuela has delivered a firm ultimatum to global carriers, demanding they restart operations to the country in the next two days or face revocation of their operating licenses.
Carriers Halt Services Following US Warning
Multiple international carriers suspended their flights to Venezuela after the American FAA issued a warning about heightened security risks in the region.
This alert followed as the United States escalated pressure by sending military assets to the Caribbean region, including what sources indicate as significant military presence.
Affected Airlines
- Spanish airlines: Iberia
- Brazilian carrier: 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.
Safety Issues
American aviation warning specifically mentioned concerns about operating in the Maiquetía region, citing worsening safety situation and increased military movements.
Venezuela's main international hub, which handles capital city flights, has seen significantly reduced international traffic despite certain carriers continuing operations.
Industry Response
Aviation organizations have requested Venezuelan authorities to remove the ultimatum, cautioning that further loss of air links would damage Venezuela's interests.
Industry representatives stressed that participating carriers had only temporarily suspended operations and remained committed to restoring services when conditions improve.
Escalating Conflict
Bilateral tensions have worsened amid American naval deployments in the region, which Washington claims aims to fight narcotics trade.
Recent military actions have included multiple strikes against suspected drug vessels in Caribbean waters since early September.
Political Standoff
National leader Nicolás Maduro has vehemently denounced both the naval actions and American deployment, alleging the US of seeking regime change.
In recent statements, Maduro declared that "They will not defeat Venezuela, our strength is unmatched."
American officials has consistently labeled Maduro as an illegitimate leader, referencing controversial 2024 elections that international observers considered irregular.
Despite tensions, American leader Donald Trump has left open the possibility of direct talks with Maduro, indicating that "at some point, we will talk with him."
