🔗 Share this article Venezuela Issues Ultimatum to Global Carriers: Resume Flights or Risk Sanctions Aviation image credit Venezuela has delivered a firm ultimatum to global carriers, demanding they resume flights to the country in the next two days or face revocation of their flight clearances. Carriers Suspend Services Following American Alert Multiple international carriers halted their Venezuelan operations after the US aviation regulator raised concerns about increased military activity in the region. This alert followed as the US government escalated pressure by deploying military assets to the southern Caribbean, including what sources indicate as significant military presence. Affected Airlines Carriers from Spain: Air Europa South American airline: Gol Airlines Chilean company: Latam Airlines Andean carrier: Avianca European airline: TAP Air Portugal Turkish carrier: Turkish Airlines "Rescinding airlines' clearance would only increase Venezuela's isolation," warned the International Air Transport Association. Safety Issues The FAA advisory specifically highlighted concerns about flying near Caracas airport, citing deteriorating security conditions and increased military movements. Venezuela's main international hub, which handles capital city flights, has seen significantly reduced global connectivity despite certain carriers continuing operations. Aviation Reaction Aviation organizations have requested Venezuelan authorities to withdraw the deadline, warning that further loss of air links would damage Venezuela's interests. Industry representatives stressed that participating carriers had only briefly halted operations and remained dedicated to reinstating services when conditions improve. Growing Tensions US-Venezuela relations have worsened amid American naval deployments in the region, which Washington claims aims to fight narcotics trade. Recent military actions have included multiple strikes against suspected drug vessels in regional seas since the beginning of fall. Political Standoff National leader Nicolás Maduro has vehemently denounced both the military strikes and broader US presence, alleging the US of seeking regime change. In public comments, Maduro declared that "They will not defeat Venezuela, we are invincible." The United States has consistently labeled Maduro as an undemocratic ruler, citing controversial 2024 elections that global monitors deemed flawed. Amid conflicts, American leader Donald Trump has not ruled out the possibility of direct talks with Maduro, suggesting that "eventually, we will talk with him."