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Trump Declares Venezuelan Airspace Closed Amid Escalating Tensions
US President Donald Trump warns that the airspace above and around Venezuela is closed “in its entirety”, escalating tensions with Nicolás Maduro’s government. Airlines warned; six South American carriers have suspended flights.
MH
by Muhammad Hashir
2025-11-29
Trump Declares Venezuelan Airspace Closed Amid Escalating Tensions

United States President Donald Trump announced on social media that the airspace above and surrounding Venezuela is closed “in its entirety”, warning airlines, pilots, drug traffickers, and human traffickers to stay away. There has been no immediate response from the Venezuelan government.

Trump’s declaration comes amid escalating US pressure on Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, including a $50 million reward for information leading to Maduro’s arrest, labeling the so-called Cartel de los Soles as a “terrorist organization,” and increased military activity in the Caribbean.

The US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) had earlier warned airlines about a “potentially hazardous situation” in Venezuelan airspace, prompting six major South American carriers to suspend flights. In response, Caracas suspended their operating rights, accusing them of “state terrorism” aligned with US actions.

Experts note that while the Trump administration frames these moves as part of a campaign against drug trafficking, many observers see them as steps aimed at pressuring Maduro to leave office. Former US ambassador Charles Shapiro described the policy as direct pressure to force Maduro out, while researcher Francisco Rodriguez called it a “scorched earth” policy that could harm Venezuelan civilians by limiting access to medicine, essential goods, and emergency travel.

Despite the escalation, there are indications of possible diplomatic engagement: The New York Times reported that Trump spoke with Maduro last week about a potential meeting in the US, though no formal plans currently exist.

Al Jazeera’s Latin America editor Lucia Newman explained that Trump’s announcements send an aggressive message to Caracas, but whether they will escalate into direct military action remains uncertain.
Tagged:

Donald trump

Venezuela

AirspaceClosure

USVenezuelaTensions
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