Trump Declares Venezuela Airspace ‘Completely Closed’ Amid Tensions

URGENT UPDATE: President Donald Trump has just announced that the airspace above and surrounding Venezuela is now declared “completely closed.” This decisive action comes as tensions escalate between the United States and the South American nation amidst ongoing military operations targeting drug trafficking.

In a post on the social media platform Truth Social, Trump stated: “To all Airlines, Pilots, Drug Dealers, and Human Traffickers, please consider THE AIRSPACE ABOVE AND SURROUNDING VENEZUELA TO BE CLOSED IN ITS ENTIRETY.” This declaration raises immediate concerns for airlines and travelers planning to fly to Venezuela, where flights are still available on many booking platforms.

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has previously warned pilots to “exercise caution” near Venezuelan airspace due to the escalating security situation and increased military activity in the region. This comes as the U.S. military has intensified its strikes against vessels suspected of drug smuggling in the Caribbean and Eastern Pacific throughout this month.

Adding to the urgency, the U.S. Department of State has maintained a “Do Not Travel” warning for Americans intending to visit Venezuela, issued back in May 2023. The warning emphasizes the high risks of wrongful detention, torture, terrorism, kidnapping, arbitrary enforcement of local laws, crime, civil unrest, and poor health infrastructure.

As tensions mount, the implications of Trump’s announcement are significant not just for aviation but also for international relations in the region. Travelers are urged to heed the warnings and stay informed about the rapidly changing situation.

What happens next? The world will be watching how this declaration impacts U.S.-Venezuela relations and the broader fight against drug trafficking. Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story.

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