Story perspectives

U.S. Military Operation Strands Travelers, Flights Delayed

1/6/2026

Summary

Story summary

The U.S. military operation that captured Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro has stranded travelers in the Caribbean, causing ongoing air travel disruptions.
Passengers such as Susannah Ray and her daughter face delays, with some flights rescheduled for more than a week.
Airlines, including American Airlines and JetBlue, are adding extra flights and larger aircraft to accommodate stranded passengers.
Travel insurance usually does not cover military-related cancellations, leaving travelers with unexpected expenses.

History

Historical Context

The U.S. invasion of Panama on December 20, 1989, aimed to depose Manuel Noriega, who had become increasingly authoritarian and involved in drug trafficking. This military action, involving over 27,000 troops, resulted in significant civilian casualties and displacement, igniting regional tensions. The invasion's aftermath raised questions about U.S. foreign policy and its impact on Latin America, echoing current concerns regarding Nicolás Maduro's regime in Venezuela.

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Story summary

The U.S. military operation that captured Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro has stranded travelers in the Caribbean, causing ongoing air travel disruptions.
Passengers such as Susannah Ray and her daughter face delays, with some flights rescheduled for more than a week.
Airlines, including American Airlines and JetBlue, are adding extra flights and larger aircraft to accommodate stranded passengers.
Travel insurance usually does not cover military-related cancellations, leaving travelers with unexpected expenses.

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