Washington, D.C. — The United States has announced that Venezuelan airspace is now considered closed to U.S.-affiliated carriers as part of a newly intensified campaign targeting international drug trafficking networks. The move, signed by former President Donald J. Trump in his current post as “PRESIDENT DONALD J. TRUMP,” aligns with a series of recent U.S. military operations, including airstrikes on alleged smuggling vessels and expanded naval deployments in the Caribbean.
U.S. officials accuse Venezuela’s leadership of enabling large-scale cocaine trafficking through criminal groups such as the Cartel de los Soles. While Washington has not established a formal no-fly zone—which would require international cooperation—flight data already shows commercial carriers altering routes to avoid Venezuelan airspace.
Supporters of the decision describe it as a strong stance against transnational drug operations. Critics, however, warn that the escalation risks worsening tensions in the region. Venezuelan officials condemned the move, calling it a violation of national sovereignty and an act of aggression.
The situation continues to develop as both nations navigate rising diplomatic strain.