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Venezuela has delivered a firm ultimatum to international airlines, requiring they restart operations to the country in the next two days or risk losing their flight clearances.

Carriers Suspend Operations Following US Warning

Multiple international carriers halted their Venezuelan operations after the US aviation regulator issued a warning about heightened security risks in the region.

This alert followed as the United States increased tensions by sending naval forces to the southern Caribbean, including what sources indicate as significant military presence.

Impacted Carriers

• Carriers from Spain: Iberia
• Brazilian carrier: Gol Airlines
• Chilean company: 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

The FAA advisory specifically highlighted concerns about flying near Caracas airport, citing deteriorating security conditions and heightened defense activities.

Venezuela's main international hub, which handles capital city flights, has seen significantly reduced global connectivity despite some airlines continuing operations.

Industry Response

Industry groups have requested Venezuelan authorities to withdraw the deadline, warning that further reduction in connectivity would damage Venezuela's interests.

The association emphasized that member airlines had only temporarily suspended operations and remained committed to restoring services when conditions improve.

Escalating Conflict

Bilateral tensions 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 suspected drug vessels in regional seas since early September.

Political Standoff

Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro has strongly condemned both the naval actions and broader US presence, accusing Washington of seeking regime change.

In recent statements, Maduro asserted that "Nobody can overcome Venezuela, our strength is unmatched."

American officials has consistently labeled Maduro as an undemocratic ruler, citing disputed re-election that global monitors deemed flawed.

Despite tensions, American leader Donald Trump has left open the option for dialogue with Maduro, suggesting that "eventually, I will speak with him."