Venezuela Issues Ultimatum to Global Carriers: Restore Services or Risk Sanctions
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The Venezuelan authorities have issued a firm ultimatum to global carriers, demanding they restart operations to the country within 48 hours or risk losing their flight clearances.
Airlines Halt Operations Following US Warning
Multiple international carriers halted their Venezuelan operations after the US aviation regulator issued a warning 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 reports describe as enhanced naval deployment.
Affected Airlines
- Carriers from Spain: Iberia
- South American airline: Gol Airlines
- Chilean company: Latam Airlines
- Colombian airline: Avianca
- Portuguese operator: TAP Air Portugal
- Middle Eastern airline: Turkish Airlines
"Revoking flight permissions would only isolate the country further," cautioned the International Air Transport Association.
Safety Issues
The FAA advisory specifically highlighted concerns about operating in the Maiquetía region, citing deteriorating security conditions and heightened defense activities.
Venezuela's main international hub, which serves Caracas, has seen significantly reduced international traffic despite some airlines maintaining services.
Industry Response
Industry groups have urged Venezuelan authorities to remove the ultimatum, warning 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 situation stabilizes.
Escalating Conflict
Bilateral tensions have deteriorated amid increased US military presence in the region, which US officials state aims to combat drug trafficking.
Recent military actions have included multiple strikes against suspected drug vessels in regional seas since early September.
Political Standoff
National leader Nicolás Maduro has strongly condemned both the military strikes and broader US presence, accusing Washington of seeking regime change.
In public comments, Maduro asserted that "Nobody can overcome Venezuela, our strength is unmatched."
The United States has repeatedly characterized Maduro as an illegitimate leader, referencing disputed re-election that global monitors considered irregular.
Amid conflicts, American leader Donald Trump has not ruled out the possibility of direct talks with Maduro, indicating that "eventually, we will talk with him."
