🔗 Share this article The Venezuelan government Issues Ultimatum to International Airlines: Resume Flights or Risk Sanctions Aviation image credit Venezuela has delivered a firm ultimatum to global carriers, demanding they resume flights to the country within 48 hours or risk losing their operating licenses. Carriers Suspend Operations Following American Alert Several major airlines 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 United States escalated pressure by deploying military assets to the southern Caribbean, including what reports describe as significant military presence. Affected Airlines Carriers from Spain: Iberia South American airline: Gol Airlines Latin American operator: Latam Airlines Colombian airline: Avianca Portuguese operator: TAP Air Portugal Turkish carrier: Turkish Airlines "Rescinding airlines' clearance would only isolate the country further," warned the International Air Transport Association. Safety Issues The FAA advisory specifically mentioned concerns about operating in the Maiquetía region, citing deteriorating security conditions and increased military movements. Venezuela's main international hub, which handles capital city flights, has seen dramatically decreased global connectivity despite some airlines maintaining services. Industry Response Industry groups have urged Venezuelan authorities to withdraw the deadline, cautioning that further loss of air links would damage Venezuela's interests. Industry representatives stressed that participating carriers had only briefly halted operations and remained committed to restoring services when situation stabilizes. Escalating Conflict US-Venezuela relations have deteriorated amid increased US military presence in the region, which Washington claims aims to fight narcotics trade. Naval operations have included numerous interventions against alleged narcotics shipments in regional seas since early September. Political Standoff National leader Nicolás Maduro has vehemently denounced both the military strikes and broader US presence, accusing Washington of attempting to overthrow him. In public comments, Maduro asserted that "They will not defeat Venezuela, our strength is unmatched." American officials has consistently labeled Maduro as an illegitimate leader, referencing disputed re-election that international observers deemed flawed. Despite tensions, American leader Donald Trump has left open the possibility of direct talks with Maduro, suggesting that "eventually, we will talk with him."