🔗 Share this article The Venezuelan government Delivers Ultimatum to International Airlines: Resume Flights or Risk Sanctions Aviation photo credit The Venezuelan authorities have issued a stern warning to international airlines, demanding they resume flights to the country in the next two days or face revocation of their operating licenses. Airlines Halt Services Following US Warning Multiple international carriers suspended their flights to Venezuela after the US aviation regulator issued a warning about increased military activity in the region. This alert followed as the US government escalated pressure by sending naval forces to the southern Caribbean, including what sources indicate as significant military presence. Impacted Carriers Carriers from Spain: Plus Ultra South American airline: Gol Airlines Latin American operator: Latam Airlines Colombian airline: Avianca Portuguese operator: TAP Air Portugal Middle Eastern airline: Turkish Airlines "Revoking flight permissions would only isolate the country further," cautioned the International Air Transport Association. Security Concerns The FAA advisory specifically mentioned concerns about flying near Caracas airport, citing deteriorating security conditions and heightened defense activities. Maiquetía airport, which handles capital city flights, has seen significantly reduced global connectivity despite some airlines continuing operations. Industry Response Industry groups have urged Venezuelan authorities to withdraw the deadline, cautioning that further loss of air links would harm the country. The association emphasized that participating carriers had only briefly halted operations and remained dedicated to reinstating services when conditions improve. Growing Tensions Bilateral tensions have worsened amid American naval deployments in the region, which Washington claims aims to combat drug trafficking. Recent military actions have included multiple strikes against suspected drug vessels in regional seas since the beginning of fall. Leadership Conflict Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro has vehemently denounced both the military strikes and broader US presence, accusing Washington of attempting to overthrow him. In recent statements, Maduro declared that "Nobody can overcome Venezuela, we are invincible." American officials has consistently labeled Maduro as an illegitimate leader, referencing disputed re-election that international observers deemed flawed. Amid conflicts, US President Donald Trump has not ruled out the possibility of direct talks with Maduro, indicating that "at some point, I will speak with him."