Trump Declares Venezuela's Airspace Closed, Ramps Up Pressure on Maduro's Regime
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US President Donald Trump has issued a stern warning to airlines, pilots, and other stakeholders, declaring the airspace above and around Venezuela 'closed in its entirety'. The announcement comes as Washington continues to escalate pressure on President Nicolas Maduro's government. In a post on Truth Social, Trump directed his message to 'all Airlines, Pilots, Drug Dealers, and Human Traffickers', urging them to consider the airspace closed. The move is the latest development in the US's efforts to counter Maduro's regime, which has been accused of involvement in drug trafficking. The US has been conducting counter-narcotics operations in the region, with the Defense Department carrying out at least 21 strikes on alleged drug boats in the Caribbean and Pacific since September. The operations have resulted in the deaths of at least 83 people. The US aviation regulator had previously warned major airlines of a 'potentially hazardous situation' when flying over Venezuela due to the worsening security situation and heightened military activity. In response, Venezuela revoked operating rights for six major international airlines that had suspended flights to the country. The Trump administration has accused Maduro of involvement in drug trafficking, a charge he has denied. Maduro, who has been in power since 2013, has vowed to resist any attempt by the US to oust him. As tensions continue to rise, the US military has been building up its presence in the region, with Trump authorizing covert CIA operations in Venezuela. The President has also warned that the US would 'very soon' begin land operations to stop suspected Venezuelan drug traffickers.
