Washington D.C. – In a move that threatens to further escalate tensions in Latin America, former U.S. President Donald Trump announced Saturday the complete closure of Venezuelan airspace. The declaration, made via his Truth Social platform, calls for all airlines, pilots, and even alleged drug trafficking and human smuggling networks to completely avoid Venezuelan airspace.
“The airspace above and adjacent to Venezuela is now entirely closed,” Trump stated. “All parties are strongly advised to refrain from entering Venezuelan airspace.”
The announcement has already drawn sharp criticism, particularly from Cuba. Havana swiftly condemned the action, labeling it a blatant attempt to destabilize the legitimate government of Venezuela. Cuban officials maintain that Washington’s actions serve as a pretext for political and military intervention in Caracas’ affairs.
This declaration follows a period of increased military activity by the Trump administration in the Caribbean. A substantial naval force, spearheaded by one of the world’s largest aircraft carriers, is currently stationed in the region. While Washington insists the deployment is aimed at combating drug trafficking into the United States, the Nicolás Maduro government alleges the moves are designed to impose a blockade and pave the way for a military operation to seize Venezuelan oil resources.
Over the past two months, U.S. forces have reported conducting strikes against more than 20 vessels suspected of involvement in drug trafficking in the Caribbean Sea and the Eastern Pacific Ocean. These operations have reportedly resulted in the deaths of over 80 individuals, according to U.S. military sources.
The rapidly unfolding situation is placing the region on edge, with growing fears that the escalating crisis between Washington and Caracas could spiral into a broader conflict. International criticism of U.S. policy toward Venezuela continues to mount as the situation deteriorates.
