Story perspectives

Airlines Halt Venezuela Flights Amid U.S. Security Warnings

11/23/2025

Summary

Story summary

On November 22, 2025, TAP Air Portugal, Iberia, and Avianca suspended flights to Venezuela after the United States Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) warned of heightened military activity and security risks.
U.S. Caribbean operations intensified, with claims of targeting drug boats tied to Venezuela.
U.S. President Donald Trump has fluctuated between military intervention and dialogue with Maduro.
Maria Corina Machado advocates respecting the people's will, not regime change.

History

Historical Context

The U.S. recognized Juan Guaidó as Venezuela's interim president on January 23, 2019, amid a political crisis following Nicolás Maduro's disputed re-election. This recognition escalated tensions, leading to U.S. sanctions targeting Venezuela's oil industry, which constituted 95% of its export revenue. The ongoing instability is reflected in the recent suspension of flights by TAP Air Portugal, Iberia, and Avianca.

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Story summary

On November 22, 2025, TAP Air Portugal, Iberia, and Avianca suspended flights to Venezuela after the United States Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) warned of heightened military activity and security risks.
U.S. Caribbean operations intensified, with claims of targeting drug boats tied to Venezuela.
U.S. President Donald Trump has fluctuated between military intervention and dialogue with Maduro.
Maria Corina Machado advocates respecting the people's will, not regime change.

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