Venezuela Rejects Trump’s Claim of Closing National Airspace

The government of Nicolás Maduro has firmly rejected a declaration by former U.S. President Donald J. Trump that the airspace over and surrounding Venezuela is “closed in its entirety.” The statement, made on social media, was denounced by Caracas as a “colonial threat” and a direct assault on Venezuelan sovereignty.

What Trump said — and why it matters

In a post on his platform, Trump addressed “Airlines, Pilots, Drug Dealers, and Human Traffickers,” warning them to avoid Venezuelan airspace. His comment came amid intensifying U.S. pressure, including maritime operations targeting suspected drug-trafficking vessels off Venezuela’s coast.

Although the U.S. aviation regulator previously cautioned airlines about potential hazards over Venezuelan skies, Trump’s announcement went further — effectively calling for a de facto no-fly zone. That move dramatically escalates already high tensions between Washington and Caracas.

Venezuela’s response: sovereignty, legality, and condemnation

Venezuelan authorities swiftly responded. The government described Trump’s declaration as “hostile, unilateral and arbitrary,” calling it inconsistent with international law. They reaffirmed that only Venezuela has authority over its airspace — and accused the U.S. of attempting to undermine the country’s territorial integrity.

Officials also noted that U.S. actions had led to the suspension of migrant repatriation flights. Caracas condemned the move as part of a broader campaign of aggression and coercion.

What’s next — the stakes for region, airlines, civilians

Since the U.S. has no legal authority to close another country’s airspace, Trump’s declaration may remain symbolic — yet the impact is already tangible. Several international airlines have canceled flights to Venezuela after prior warnings from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) about the dangerous security environment.

A full de facto airspace closure could isolate Venezuela, affecting travel, trade, and the movement of essential goods. Political analysts warn that this could deepen humanitarian strains and heighten instability.

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