Caracas, Nov 27 (V7N) – Amid escalating military tensions with the United States, Venezuela has banned six major international airlines from landing and taking off in the country. The ban took effect on Wednesday, November 26, after the airlines failed to comply with a 48-hour ultimatum issued by Caracas.

The affected airlines are Iberia, TAP Portugal, Gol, LATAM, Avianca, and Turkish Airlines. Thousands of passengers have been affected, although some smaller carriers continue operations within Venezuela.

The tensions follow the deployment of 15,000 U.S. troops and the aircraft carrier USS Gerald Ford near Venezuela’s Caribbean coast. Washington claims the operation is part of anti-drug efforts. However, experts argue that such a large military presence is unusual for anti-narcotics missions. U.S. forces have targeted at least 21 vessels, resulting in over 80 deaths, though no evidence has been presented confirming the presence of drugs on these boats.

Venezuela alleges that the U.S. military actions are aimed at ousting President Nicolás Maduro. Last year, his reelection was widely rejected by the opposition and several foreign governments, including the U.S., citing electoral irregularities.

On November 22, following U.S. military maneuvers, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) issued a safety warning for airspace near Venezuela’s Maiquetía International Airport, citing rapidly deteriorating security conditions and heightened military activity. The banned airlines suspended flights in response.

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) attempted to mediate and normalize operations, but Venezuela remained firm. Despite the heightened tensions, both countries’ leaders have signaled limited diplomatic engagement. U.S. President Donald Trump stated he could engage Maduro “by easy or hard means” if necessary, while Maduro shared a video on social media showing that life in Caracas continues normally.

END/WD/AJ/