🔗 Share this article The Venezuelan government Issues Ultimatum to International Airlines: Resume Flights or Risk Sanctions Airport image source The Venezuelan authorities have issued a stern warning to global carriers, requiring they restart operations to the country in the next two days or risk losing their flight clearances. Carriers Suspend Operations Following American Alert Several major airlines suspended their Venezuelan operations after the American FAA raised concerns about increased military activity in the region. The warning came as the United States escalated pressure by deploying naval forces to the Caribbean region, including what sources indicate as significant military presence. Impacted Carriers Spanish airlines: Air Europa Brazilian carrier: Gol Airlines Chilean company: Latam Airlines Andean carrier: Avianca Portuguese operator: TAP Air Portugal Middle Eastern airline: Turkish Airlines "Rescinding airlines' clearance would only isolate the country further," warned the global aviation body. Security Concerns American aviation warning specifically mentioned concerns about operating in the MaiquetÃa region, citing deteriorating security conditions and increased military movements. Venezuela's main international hub, which serves Caracas, has seen significantly reduced global connectivity despite certain carriers continuing operations. Aviation Reaction Industry groups 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 briefly halted operations and remained committed to restoring services when situation stabilizes. Growing Tensions Bilateral tensions have worsened amid increased US military presence in the region, which US officials state aims to combat drug trafficking. Naval operations have included multiple strikes against alleged narcotics shipments in regional seas since early September. Political Standoff Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro has vehemently denounced both the military strikes and American deployment, alleging the US of seeking regime change. In recent statements, Maduro asserted that "They will not defeat Venezuela, we are invincible." The United States has repeatedly characterized Maduro as an undemocratic ruler, referencing disputed re-election that international observers considered irregular. Amid conflicts, American leader Donald Trump has left open the possibility of direct talks with Maduro, suggesting that "at some point, I will speak with him."