In a dramatic escalation of tensions with Caracas, former US President Donald Trump has unilaterally declared the airspace surrounding Venezuela to be “closed in its entirety.” The controversial statement was issued through social media platforms, specifically addressing “Airlines, Pilots, Drug Dealers, and Human Traffickers” in all-capital letters.
This declaration comes amid a substantial US military deployment to the Caribbean region, including the world’s largest aircraft carrier, the USS Gerald Ford, and approximately 15,000 troops positioned within striking distance of Venezuela. US officials maintain this represents the largest regional military presence since the 1989 invasion of Panama, ostensibly for counter-narcotics operations.
The aviation industry faces immediate uncertainty following Trump’s proclamation, which lacks legal authority under international law. The Federal Aviation Administration had previously warned carriers of “heightened military activity in and around Venezuela” days earlier. Concurrently, Venezuelan authorities have banned six major international airlines—Iberia, TAP Portugal, Gol, Latam, Avianca, and Turkish Airlines—from landing after they failed to meet a 48-hour deadline to resume flights.
US forces have conducted at least 21 maritime strikes targeting vessels allegedly transporting narcotics, resulting in over 80 fatalities. However, no concrete evidence has been provided to substantiate drug trafficking claims. The Trump administration has additionally designated the ‘Cartel de los Soles’ as a foreign terrorist organization, alleging direct leadership by President Nicolás Maduro and corruption of Venezuela’s military and judicial institutions.
Venezuela’s government has consistently rejected both the narcotics allegations and the cartel designation as political fabrications aimed at regime change. The White House has not responded to media inquiries regarding the airspace declaration, while Venezuela remains silent on Trump’s latest remarks.