U.S. President Donald Trump declared that the United States will close the airspace over and around Venezuela, demanding that all airlines, pilots, drug traffickers and human traffickers cease flying there.
Trump Orders Airspace Closure Over Venezuela
President Donald Trump announced on Truth Social that the United States will shutter all aviation operations over and around Venezuela. He called for an immediate halt to any flights.
Demand for Pilots, Airlines, and Traffickers to Cease Operations
Trump’s message urged all airlines, pilots, drug traffickers, and human traffickers to stop operating in the Venezuelan airspace, citing security concerns.
Airlines Suspend Flights to Venezuela
Several carriers halted routes to Caracas after the FAA warned them of potentially dangerous conditions over the country. Spanish carriers AirEuropa, Plus Ultra, Iberia, Brazil’s Gol, and Portugal’s Air Portugal suspended flights.
U.S. Maritime Attacks Near Venezuelan Coast
U.S. forces targeted vessels off the northern coast in the fight against alleged drug smugglers, resulting in at least 83 fatalities. The United Nations deemed the actions extrajudicial executions.
Trump Stresses Commitment to Counter Drug Trafficking
During a press briefing on November 17, Trump said he would do everything necessary and did not rule out deploying troops to Venezuela, emphasizing the need to address the drug crisis.