Trump Urges Treating Venezuelan Airspace as Completely Restricted

President Donald Trump warned airlines to consider Venezuelan airspace completely closed, escalating tensions with leader Nicolás Maduro as the US deploys massive naval forces in the Caribbean. The move comes amid American military strikes against suspected drug smuggling vessels, though Washington hasn't provided evidence these ships posed actual threats.

Trump posted the warning on Truth Social, addressing "all airlines, pilots, drug dealers, and human traffickers" to treat airspace "over and around Venezuela" as fully closed. The statement targets commercial aviation while also sending a message to criminal networks operating in the region.

The Trump administration has ramped up pressure on Venezuela by positioning significant military assets in the Caribbean, including the world's largest aircraft carrier. Washington says this deployment aims to stop drug smuggling into the United States. But Caracas views it as an attempt to overthrow Maduro and seize Venezuela's oil resources.

Since early September, US forces have struck more than 20 ships they claim were involved in drug trafficking across the Caribbean and eastern Pacific. These operations killed over 80 people. But the US hasn't released evidence showing these vessels actually smuggled drugs or threatened American interests.

The military campaign creates serious implications for regional stability and global energy markets. Venezuela holds some of the world's largest proven oil reserves, and any disruption to its operations could affect crude prices. Airlines now face the challenge of rerouting flights around Venezuelan airspace, potentially increasing costs and travel times for passengers.

The New York Times reported that Trump and Maduro spoke by phone last week, discussing a possible meeting in the United States. This diplomatic contact came just before Trump announced plans to stop drug smuggling by land routes as well, further raising tensions with Caracas.

Regional tensions are climbing as the bombing campaign continues alongside the military buildup. Countries across Latin America are watching closely, concerned about spillover effects from the escalating confrontation between Washington and Caracas.