🔗 Share this article Venezuela Delivers Ultimatum to Global Carriers: Restore Services or Face Consequences Aviation image credit Venezuela has delivered a firm ultimatum to international airlines, requiring they resume flights to the country in the next two days or risk losing their flight clearances. Airlines Halt Services Following American Alert Multiple international carriers halted their flights to Venezuela after the American FAA raised concerns about increased military activity in the region. This alert followed as the United States escalated pressure by sending military assets to the southern Caribbean, including what reports describe as significant military presence. Impacted Carriers Carriers from Spain: Plus Ultra South American airline: Gol Airlines Latin American operator: Latam Airlines Andean carrier: Avianca Portuguese operator: TAP Air Portugal Middle Eastern airline: Turkish Airlines "Rescinding airlines' clearance would only isolate the country further," cautioned the International Air Transport Association. Safety Issues American aviation warning specifically mentioned concerns about operating in the MaiquetÃa region, referencing deteriorating security conditions and heightened defense activities. MaiquetÃa airport, which handles capital city flights, has seen significantly reduced global connectivity despite certain carriers continuing operations. Industry Response Industry groups have requested Venezuelan authorities to withdraw the deadline, cautioning that further reduction in connectivity would harm the country. The association emphasized that member airlines had only briefly halted operations and remained dedicated to reinstating services when situation stabilizes. 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 numerous interventions against alleged narcotics shipments in regional seas since early September. Political Standoff National leader Nicolás Maduro has vehemently denounced both the naval actions and American deployment, accusing Washington of seeking regime change. In recent statements, Maduro asserted that "They will not defeat Venezuela, we are invincible." The United States has consistently labeled Maduro as an illegitimate leader, citing controversial 2024 elections that global monitors considered irregular. Amid conflicts, US President Donald Trump has not ruled out the possibility of direct talks with Maduro, indicating that "eventually, I will speak with him."