🔗 Share this article The Venezuelan government Issues Ultimatum to Global Carriers: Resume Flights or Risk Sanctions Airport photo 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 operating licenses. Airlines Suspend Services Following US Warning Several major airlines suspended their Venezuelan operations after the US aviation regulator raised concerns about increased military activity in the region. The warning came as the US government escalated pressure by deploying military assets to the southern Caribbean, including what sources indicate as enhanced naval deployment. Affected Airlines Carriers from Spain: Plus Ultra Brazilian carrier: 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 increase Venezuela's isolation," warned the International Air Transport Association. Security Concerns American aviation warning specifically mentioned concerns about flying near Caracas airport, referencing worsening safety situation and heightened defense activities. Venezuela's main international hub, which handles capital city flights, has seen significantly reduced global connectivity despite certain carriers maintaining services. Aviation Reaction Industry groups have urged Venezuelan authorities to remove the ultimatum, cautioning that further loss of air links would harm the country. The association emphasized that participating carriers had only temporarily suspended 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 fight narcotics trade. Recent military actions have included numerous interventions against alleged narcotics shipments in Caribbean waters since early September. Political Standoff Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro has strongly condemned both the military strikes and American deployment, alleging the US of attempting to overthrow him. In recent statements, Maduro asserted that "Nobody can overcome Venezuela, we are invincible." American officials has repeatedly characterized Maduro as an illegitimate leader, citing controversial 2024 elections that global monitors considered irregular. Despite tensions, US President Donald Trump has left open the possibility of direct talks with Maduro, indicating that "eventually, we will talk with him."