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Venezuela has delivered a stern warning to international airlines, demanding they resume flights to the country in the next two days or risk losing their flight clearances.

Airlines Halt Services Following American Alert

Several major airlines halted their flights to Venezuela 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 Caribbean region, including what reports describe as enhanced naval deployment.

Affected Airlines

• Spanish airlines: Air Europa
• Brazilian carrier: Gol Airlines
• Chilean company: Latam Airlines
• Andean carrier: Avianca
• Portuguese operator: TAP Air Portugal
• Turkish carrier: Turkish Airlines

"Revoking flight permissions would only increase Venezuela's isolation," cautioned the global aviation body.

Security Concerns

American aviation warning specifically highlighted concerns about operating in the Maiquetía region, referencing worsening safety situation 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.

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

Escalating Conflict

US-Venezuela relations have worsened amid increased US military presence in the region, which US officials state aims to fight narcotics trade.

Naval operations have included numerous interventions against alleged narcotics shipments in regional seas since the beginning of fall.

Leadership Conflict

National leader Nicolás Maduro has strongly condemned both the military strikes and American deployment, accusing Washington of attempting to overthrow him.

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

American officials has repeatedly characterized Maduro as an undemocratic ruler, citing controversial 2024 elections that international observers deemed flawed.

Amid conflicts, US President Donald Trump has left open the possibility of direct talks with Maduro, indicating that "at some point, I will speak with him."