🔗 Share this article Venezuela Delivers Ultimatum to International Airlines: Resume Flights or Risk Sanctions Aviation image source Venezuela has delivered a stern warning to global carriers, requiring they resume flights to the country in the next two days or risk losing their flight clearances. Airlines Suspend Operations Following American Alert Multiple international carriers halted their flights to Venezuela after the American FAA raised concerns about heightened security risks in the region. This alert followed as the United States escalated pressure by deploying naval forces to the southern Caribbean, including what sources indicate as enhanced naval deployment. Affected Airlines Spanish airlines: Air Europa Brazilian carrier: Gol Airlines Latin American operator: Latam Airlines Colombian airline: Avianca European airline: TAP Air Portugal Middle Eastern airline: Turkish Airlines "Rescinding airlines' clearance would only increase Venezuela's isolation," cautioned the International Air Transport Association. Safety Issues American aviation warning specifically highlighted concerns about operating in the Maiquetía region, citing deteriorating security conditions and heightened defense activities. Maiquetía airport, which handles capital city flights, has seen dramatically decreased international traffic despite certain carriers continuing operations. Aviation Reaction Industry groups have requested Venezuelan authorities to withdraw the deadline, cautioning that further reduction in connectivity would damage Venezuela's interests. The association emphasized that participating carriers had only briefly halted operations and remained dedicated to reinstating services when situation stabilizes. Escalating Conflict US-Venezuela relations have deteriorated amid increased US military presence in the region, which Washington claims aims to combat drug trafficking. Naval operations have included numerous interventions against alleged narcotics shipments in regional seas since the beginning of fall. Leadership Conflict National leader Nicolás Maduro has vehemently denounced both the naval actions and American deployment, alleging the US of attempting to overthrow him. In recent statements, Maduro declared that "Nobody can overcome Venezuela, our strength is unmatched." American officials has consistently labeled Maduro as an undemocratic ruler, referencing disputed re-election that international observers deemed flawed. Amid conflicts, American leader Donald Trump has left open the option for dialogue with Maduro, suggesting that "at some point, we will talk with him."