President Donald Trump recently declared that the airspace over Venezuela is officially closed to all flights. This announcement comes amid escalating tensions with the Venezuelan government, led by President Nicolás Maduro.
In a message posted on his Truth Social platform, Trump emphasized the seriousness of the situation, urging all airlines, pilots, and even individuals involved in nefarious activities to respect this directive. He stated, “To all Airlines, Pilots, Drug Dealers, and Human Traffickers, please consider THE AIRSPACE ABOVE AND SURROUNDING VENEZUELA TO BE CLOSED IN ITS ENTIRETY.”
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) supported Trump’s message by warning airlines to be cautious when flying near Venezuela. The FAA noted that there is a worsening security situation and increased military activity in the region. As a result, several airlines have already canceled flights to the area.
Since September, the Trump administration has taken significant military actions against suspected drug trafficking vessels in both the Caribbean Sea and the Pacific Ocean. During a phone call with military personnel on Thanksgiving Day, Trump hinted at imminent land operations against drug cartels linked to Venezuela.
Tensions between the U.S. and Maduro’s government have been high for years, with the U.S. one of over 50 countries that do not recognize Maduro as the legitimate leader of Venezuela. Since taking power in 2013 after Hugo Chávez’s death, Maduro has faced numerous accusations of human rights violations and corruption.
In October, Trump officially classified the ongoing conflict with Caribbean drug cartels as an “armed conflict,” further solidifying the U.S. stance against Venezuelan officials. Recently, the State Department labeled the Cartel de los Soles as a “Foreign Terrorist Organization,” citing connections to Maduro’s regime.
On his Thanksgiving call with military members, Trump commended their efforts against Venezuelan drug traffickers, highlighting the decreased number of such vessels operating at sea. His administration continues to pursue a strong approach to curb drug trafficking and protect national interests.
The situation remains dynamic, and the Trump administration is expected to take further action as developments unfold.
