🔗 Share this article The Venezuelan government Issues Final Warning to International Airlines: Restore Services or Risk Sanctions Aviation photo source The Venezuelan authorities have issued a firm ultimatum to international airlines, demanding they restart operations to the country within 48 hours or face revocation of their operating licenses. Airlines Halt Services Following US Warning Multiple international carriers suspended their Venezuelan operations after the American FAA issued a warning about heightened security risks in the region. The warning came as the US government increased tensions by sending naval forces to the Caribbean region, including what sources indicate as enhanced naval deployment. Affected Airlines Spanish airlines: Iberia South American airline: Gol Airlines Chilean company: Latam Airlines Colombian airline: Avianca Portuguese operator: TAP Air Portugal Middle Eastern airline: Turkish Airlines "Revoking flight permissions would only isolate the country further," cautioned the global aviation body. Security Concerns American aviation warning specifically highlighted concerns about flying near Caracas airport, referencing worsening safety situation and heightened defense activities. Venezuela's main international hub, which handles capital city flights, has seen significantly reduced international traffic despite certain carriers maintaining services. Aviation Reaction Aviation organizations have requested Venezuelan authorities to withdraw the deadline, warning that further reduction in connectivity would damage Venezuela's interests. Industry representatives stressed that participating carriers had only briefly halted operations and remained dedicated to reinstating services when conditions improve. Escalating Conflict Bilateral tensions have deteriorated amid American naval deployments in the region, which US officials state aims to fight narcotics trade. Recent military actions have included multiple strikes against alleged narcotics shipments in regional seas since the beginning of fall. Leadership Conflict Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro has strongly condemned both the naval actions and American deployment, accusing Washington of seeking regime change. In recent statements, Maduro declared that "They will not defeat Venezuela, we are invincible." The United States has repeatedly characterized Maduro as an illegitimate leader, referencing controversial 2024 elections that international observers considered irregular. Amid conflicts, US President Donald Trump has left open the option for dialogue with Maduro, indicating that "eventually, I will speak with him."