🔗 Share this article The Venezuelan government Issues Final Warning to International Airlines: Restore Services or Face Consequences Airport image source The Venezuelan authorities have issued a stern warning to international airlines, requiring they restart operations to the country within 48 hours or risk losing their flight clearances. Airlines Halt Operations Following US Warning Multiple international carriers suspended their Venezuelan operations after the US aviation regulator raised concerns about heightened security risks in the region. The warning came as the US government escalated pressure by sending military assets to the southern Caribbean, including what sources indicate as enhanced naval deployment. Affected Airlines Spanish airlines: Iberia South American airline: Gol Airlines Latin American operator: Latam Airlines Andean carrier: Avianca European airline: TAP Air Portugal Middle Eastern airline: Turkish Airlines "Rescinding airlines' clearance would only increase Venezuela's isolation," cautioned the International Air Transport Association. Security Concerns American aviation warning specifically mentioned concerns about operating in the Maiquetía region, citing deteriorating security conditions and heightened defense activities. Venezuela's main international hub, which handles capital city flights, has seen dramatically decreased global connectivity despite certain carriers continuing operations. Aviation Reaction Industry groups have urged Venezuelan authorities to withdraw the deadline, cautioning that further reduction in connectivity would damage Venezuela's interests. The association emphasized that member airlines had only briefly halted operations and remained committed to restoring services when conditions improve. Growing Tensions US-Venezuela relations have deteriorated amid increased US military presence in the region, which Washington claims aims to fight narcotics trade. Recent military actions have included numerous interventions against alleged narcotics shipments in regional seas since the beginning of fall. Leadership Conflict National leader Nicolás Maduro has vehemently denounced both the naval actions and broader US presence, alleging the US of attempting to overthrow him. In public comments, Maduro asserted that "Nobody can overcome Venezuela, we are invincible." American officials has consistently labeled Maduro as an illegitimate leader, citing controversial 2024 elections that global monitors considered irregular. Despite tensions, American leader Donald Trump has not ruled out the possibility of direct talks with Maduro, indicating that "at some point, I will speak with him."