US aviation authorities warn of danger in Venezuelan airspace – several international airlines are now reacting and canceling their flights to Venezuela. A new phase of US military operations is imminent, according to a report.
Following a warning from the US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), six airlines have canceled their flights to Venezuela. Spanish airline Iberia, Portuguese airline TAP, Chile’s Latam, Colombia’s Avianca, Brazilian airline GOL and Caribbean from Trinidad and Tobago suspended their flights on Saturday, said the president of Venezuela’s aviation association Alav, Marisela de Loaiza. How long this policy will be in effect is still unclear.
US aviation authorities on Friday warned of danger in Venezuelan airspace against the backdrop of a growing US military presence in the Caribbean. Planes passing through the area should “exercise caution,” he said. Authorities cited “deteriorating security situation and increased military activity in or around Venezuela” as reasons.
America has been expanding its military presence in the Caribbean for months. In recent weeks, several warships and warplanes have been sent to the Caribbean – according to the company’s own statements to combat drug trafficking.
The largest US aircraft carrier “Gerald R. Ford” has now arrived in its operating area in the Caribbean. There are dozens of fighter jets on board. Since September, US forces have repeatedly attacked vessels belonging to drug smugglers in the Caribbean and Eastern Pacific – resulting in dozens of deaths.
A new phase of US operations?
Reuters news agency is now reporting that government officials have spoken about a new phase of the US operation against Venezuela being prepared. US President Donald Trump wants to increase pressure on President Nicolas Maduro, he said.
Two insiders told Reuters that a covert operation was likely the first step. “President Trump is ready to use the full force of America to stop the flow of drugs into our country and hold those responsible accountable,” a top administration official said. It was initially unclear whether Trump had made up his mind. The Pentagon referred the request to the White House. The CIA declined to comment.
The US accused Venezuela of actively encouraging drug smuggling into the US and thereby endangering the security of the US and its citizens. The Trump administration accuses Maduro of being involved in this illegal trade, but Maduro denies this.
