Trump Declares Venezuela Airspace ‘Entirely Closed’ Amid Drug Crackdown
Washington D.C. – Donald Trump has effectively closed Venezuelan airspace, issuing a directive aimed at disrupting what he terms “drug dealers and human traffickers.” The President announced the closure via his social media platform, Truth Social, stating: “To all airlines, Pilots, Drug Dealers, and Human Traffickers, please consider THE AIRSPACE ABOVE AND SURROUNDING VENEZUELA TO BE CLOSED IN ITS ENTIRETY.”
The move follows a security notice issued by the Federal Aviation Governance (FAA) advising airlines and pilots to avoid Venezuelan airspace due to “a worsening security situation,” increased military activity, and potential GPS interference. Several major international airlines have already suspended flights to Venezuela in response to these concerns, and venezuela subsequently revoked their operating rights.
This action is the latest in a series of escalating measures taken by the Trump administration to combat drug trafficking into the United States. The White House has repeatedly accused Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro of collaborating with drug trafficking organizations.
Earlier this week, President Trump alluded to potential military intervention against drug smugglers, stating, “People aren’t wanting to be delivering by sea. And we’ll be starting to stop them by land also. The land is easier. But that’s going to start very soon. We warn them.Stop sending poison to our country.”
The administration’s actions, including reported attacks on suspected drug vessels, have drawn criticism from both domestic political opponents and international bodies. Volker Turk, the United Nations Commissioner for Human Rights, has labelled the actions “unacceptable” and expressed concerns regarding potential violations of international law.
