🔗 Share this article The Venezuelan government Delivers Ultimatum to Global Carriers: Resume Flights or Face Consequences Airport image credit The Venezuelan authorities have issued a firm ultimatum to international airlines, requiring they restart operations to the country in the next two days or face revocation of their operating licenses. Carriers Halt Services Following US Warning Multiple international carriers halted their flights to Venezuela after the US aviation regulator issued a warning about increased military activity in the region. The warning came as the US government increased tensions by sending naval forces to the southern Caribbean, including what sources indicate as enhanced naval deployment. Impacted Carriers 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 "Revoking flight permissions would only increase Venezuela's isolation," cautioned the global aviation body. Safety Issues The FAA advisory specifically highlighted concerns about operating in the Maiquetía region, referencing deteriorating security conditions and increased military movements. Venezuela's main international hub, which serves Caracas, has seen dramatically decreased international traffic despite some airlines maintaining services. Aviation Reaction Industry groups have requested Venezuelan authorities to withdraw the deadline, warning that further loss of air links would harm the country. 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 US officials state aims to combat drug trafficking. Naval operations have included numerous interventions against alleged narcotics shipments in Caribbean waters since early September. Leadership Conflict Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro has vehemently denounced both the military strikes and American deployment, accusing Washington of attempting to overthrow him. In recent statements, Maduro declared that "Nobody can overcome Venezuela, we are invincible." The United States has consistently labeled Maduro as an undemocratic ruler, referencing controversial 2024 elections that international observers deemed flawed. Despite tensions, US President Donald Trump has not ruled out the possibility of direct talks with Maduro, indicating that "eventually, I will speak with him."