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The Venezuelan authorities have issued a firm ultimatum to international airlines, requiring they restart operations to the country in the next two days or risk losing their operating licenses.

Airlines Halt Services Following American Alert

Several major airlines suspended their Venezuelan operations after the US aviation regulator issued a warning about increased military activity in the region.

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

Affected Airlines

• Spanish airlines: Iberia
• South American airline: Gol Airlines
• Latin American operator: Latam Airlines
• Andean carrier: Avianca
• European airline: TAP Air Portugal
• Turkish carrier: Turkish Airlines

"Rescinding airlines' clearance would only increase Venezuela's isolation," cautioned the International Air Transport Association.

Security Concerns

American aviation warning specifically mentioned concerns about operating in the Maiquetía region, referencing worsening safety situation and increased military movements.

Maiquetía airport, which handles capital city flights, has seen significantly reduced international traffic despite certain carriers maintaining services.

Industry Response

Aviation organizations have urged Venezuelan authorities to remove the ultimatum, cautioning that further loss of air links would damage Venezuela's interests.

Industry representatives stressed that member airlines had only briefly halted operations and remained dedicated to reinstating services when conditions improve.

Escalating Conflict

Bilateral tensions have worsened 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 American deployment, alleging the US of attempting to overthrow him.

In public comments, Maduro declared that "Nobody can overcome Venezuela, our strength is unmatched."

American officials has repeatedly characterized Maduro as an illegitimate leader, referencing controversial 2024 elections that international observers considered irregular.

Amid conflicts, American leader Donald Trump has not ruled out the possibility of direct talks with Maduro, indicating that "at some point, we will talk with him."