🔗 Share this article The Venezuelan government Issues Final Warning to Global Carriers: Resume Flights or Risk Sanctions Aviation photo credit Venezuela has delivered a firm ultimatum to global carriers, requiring they restart operations to the country in the next two days or face revocation of their flight clearances. Airlines Halt Operations Following American Alert Multiple international carriers suspended their Venezuelan operations after the US aviation regulator issued a warning about increased military activity in the region. The warning came as the United States increased tensions by sending military assets to the southern Caribbean, including what reports describe as significant military presence. Affected Airlines Spanish airlines: Iberia Brazilian carrier: Gol Airlines Chilean company: Latam Airlines Andean carrier: Avianca Portuguese operator: TAP Air Portugal Turkish carrier: Turkish Airlines "Rescinding airlines' clearance would only isolate the country further," warned the International Air Transport Association. Security Concerns The FAA advisory specifically mentioned concerns about flying near Caracas airport, citing deteriorating security conditions and increased military movements. Maiquetía airport, which handles capital city flights, has seen dramatically decreased global connectivity despite some airlines continuing operations. Industry Response Industry groups have requested 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 temporarily suspended operations and remained dedicated to reinstating services when conditions improve. Growing Tensions Bilateral tensions have deteriorated amid American naval deployments in the region, which US officials state aims to combat drug trafficking. Naval operations have included multiple strikes against alleged narcotics shipments in Caribbean waters since the beginning of fall. Leadership Conflict National leader Nicolás Maduro has strongly condemned both the naval actions and American deployment, alleging the US of attempting to overthrow him. In recent statements, Maduro asserted that "Nobody can overcome Venezuela, we are invincible." The United States has repeatedly characterized Maduro as an undemocratic ruler, citing controversial 2024 elections that international observers considered irregular. Amid conflicts, US President Donald Trump has left open the possibility of direct talks with Maduro, indicating that "eventually, I will speak with him."