Government Condemns US Rhetoric
Venezuela reacts with anger to Donald Trump’s claim that the country’s airspace should be seen as closed. The foreign ministry calls his statement “another extravagant, illegal and unjustified aggression against the Venezuelan people”. Officials say the United States has no legal power to close another country’s airspace. They accuse Trump of issuing a “colonialist threat” that violates international standards.
US Actions Escalate Regional Strain
The United States boosts its military presence near Venezuela. US forces carry out at least 21 strikes on boats they say transported drugs. More than 80 people die in these attacks. Washington provides no evidence to support its claims. President Nicolás Maduro says the United States seeks to remove him from office. Trump writes on Truth Social that all airlines, pilots, smugglers and traffickers should treat the entire Venezuelan airspace as closed. The White House does not answer a request for comment from a British broadcaster.
Political Backlash in Washington
Trump’s threat triggers anger among lawmakers in the US Congress. Members from both parties criticise him for ignoring legislative approval. Chuck Schumer warns that Trump pushes the United States toward another costly foreign conflict. He says the constitution grants Congress the sole authority to declare war. Marjorie Taylor Greene, once a strong Trump supporter, repeats this warning.
Aviation Disruptions Follow Safety Alerts
Trump’s comments come days after a warning from the US Federal Aviation Administration. The agency alerts airlines to increased military activity in and around Venezuela. Several major carriers suspend flights soon after. Caracas then withdraws their take-off and landing rights. Venezuela’s foreign ministry urges governments, global bodies and the UN to reject what it calls an immoral act of aggression. The Venezuelan military stages coastal exercises on the same day. State television shows anti-aircraft systems and heavy artillery moving into place.
US Deployment Sparks New Fears
The United States deploys the USS Gerald Ford, the world’s largest aircraft carrier, along with about 15,000 troops. Washington says the move targets drug trafficking networks. The deployment marks the largest US military presence in the region since the 1989 invasion of Panama. Trump warns that efforts to block alleged Venezuelan drug trafficking by land will begin very soon. Venezuelan officials believe Washington aims to topple Maduro, whose disputed re-election drew broad criticism. Colombian President Gustavo Petro says the United States uses violence to dominate Latin America, though some regional leaders welcome Trump’s approach.
Terrorist Listing Deepens Diplomatic Rift
The United States labels the Cartel of the Suns as a foreign terrorist organisation. Washington alleges that Maduro and senior officials lead the group. The designation grants US agencies expanded powers to target and dismantle it. Venezuela’s foreign ministry rejects the label “categorically, firmly and absolutely”, calling it another attempt to undermine the government.
