Venezuela Issues Ultimatum to Global Carriers: Restore Services or Risk Sanctions

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The Venezuelan authorities have issued a stern warning to international airlines, requiring they resume flights to the country in the next two days or risk losing their operating licenses.

Carriers Halt Services Following American Alert

Multiple international carriers halted their flights to Venezuela after the US aviation regulator issued a warning about increased military activity in the region.

The warning came as the US government escalated pressure by deploying military assets to the southern Caribbean, including what sources indicate as enhanced naval deployment.

Affected Airlines

• Spanish airlines: Air Europa
• 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 isolate the country further," cautioned the global aviation body.

Safety Issues

American aviation warning specifically highlighted concerns about flying near Caracas airport, referencing worsening safety situation and heightened defense activities.

Venezuela's main international hub, which serves Caracas, has seen significantly reduced global connectivity despite certain carriers maintaining services.

Industry Response

Industry groups have urged Venezuelan authorities to withdraw the deadline, warning that further loss of air links would harm the country.

The association emphasized that member airlines had only briefly halted operations and remained dedicated to reinstating services when situation stabilizes.

Growing Tensions

US-Venezuela relations have worsened amid American naval deployments 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 American deployment, alleging the US of seeking regime change.

In recent statements, Maduro asserted that "Nobody can overcome Venezuela, our strength is unmatched."

American officials has repeatedly characterized Maduro as an undemocratic ruler, referencing disputed re-election that international observers deemed flawed.

Amid conflicts, American leader Donald Trump has not ruled out the possibility of direct talks with Maduro, suggesting that "at some point, I will speak with him."