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Venezuela bans six airlines after flight suspensions amid US tensions
Venezuela's civil aviation authority revoked landing rights for six major international carriers on Wednesday after they failed to resume flights within a 48-hour ultimatum, leaving thousands of passengers stranded. The airlines-Iberia, TAP Portugal, Gol, Latam, Avianca, and Turkish Airlines-had suspended routes to Caracas following a US warning about "heightened military activity" near Venezuela.
Government accuses airlines of 'state terrorism'
The aviation authority, under the transport ministry, accused the airlines of "joining the actions of state terrorism promoted by the United States government" by halting operations. The move comes as tensions escalate between Caracas and Washington, with Venezuela's government viewing the US military presence as a threat to President Nicolás Maduro.
US military buildup fuels regional tensions
The US has deployed 15,000 troops and the aircraft carrier USS Gerald Ford near Venezuela, framing the operation as a counter-narcotics effort. However, US forces have conducted 21 strikes on boats allegedly carrying drugs, killing over 80 people, without presenting public evidence of drug trafficking. Analysts question the scale of the deployment, noting its similarity to past military interventions.
Venezuela's government insists the operation aims to destabilize Maduro, whose 2024 re-election remains disputed by opposition groups and foreign governments.
FAA warning triggers flight suspensions
The US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) issued a security alert on Friday, urging airlines to "exercise caution" around Caracas's Maiquetía International Airport due to "worsening security and heightened military activity." The warning prompted the now-banned carriers to pause flights, despite industry group Iata's attempts to mediate.
Diplomatic signals amid escalation
Amid the crisis, both Maduro and US President Donald Trump hinted at potential talks. Trump, speaking aboard Air Force One, stated he "might talk" to Maduro but added, "We can do things the easy way, that's fine, and if we have to do it the hard way, that's fine too." Maduro, meanwhile, shared a video of himself touring Caracas's Christmas decorations, projecting an image of normalcy.
Impact on travelers
While smaller airlines continue operating, the ban disrupts travel for thousands. The government has not specified when-or if-the restrictions might be lifted.
