Trump declares Venezuela airspace closed, Caracas terms it 'colonialist threat'
What's the story
Venezuela has slammed United States President Donald Trump for his recent comments about closing the airspace over and around the country. The Venezuelan Foreign Ministry termed Trump's remarks a "colonialist threat" against its territorial integrity, the BBC reported. While the US does not have the legal authority to close another country's airspace, Trump's statement could nonetheless create travel uncertainty and discourage airlines from operating there.
Military escalation
US military buildup near Venezuela amid drug trafficking claims
The US has been increasing its military presence in the Caribbean, claiming it is to combat drug smuggling. This includes deploying the USS Gerald Ford aircraft carrier, the world's largest, and approximately 15,000 troops in Venezuela's vicinity. President Nicolas Maduro has dismissed the claims of drug trafficking as a pretext for a coup attempt against him. The US has also designated Cartel de los Soles (Cartel of the Suns), a group allegedly led by Maduro, as a foreign terrorist organization.
Diplomatic tensions
Venezuela suspends deportation flights, bans international airlines
Venezuela's foreign ministry said that the US had "unilaterally suspended" its weekly migrant repatriation flights. On Wednesday, the Maduro government banned six major international airlines from landing in the country. The US does not recognize Maduro as the legitimate leader of Venezuela and has charged him with narcoterrorism. Meanwhile, international airlines have started canceling flights to Venezuela after the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) warned pilots about heightened military activity in the area.
Military action
US forces conduct strikes on alleged drug-carrying boats
The FAA's jurisdiction is generally limited to the US and its territories, but it routinely warns pilots about potential dangers in conflict zones around the world. US forces have conducted at least 21 strikes since September on boats they allege were carrying drugs, killing over 80 people. However, no evidence has been provided to substantiate these claims.
Oversight demand
Bipartisan calls for oversight of US military strikes
There are bipartisan calls for greater oversight of US military strikes in the region. The Senate Armed Services Committee plans to investigate the circumstances around the strikes. According to AP, Trump's administration has considered both military and nonmilitary options with Venezuela, including covert action by the CIA. Trump has publicly deliberated about talking to Maduro. On Friday, The New York Times reported a conversation between Trump and Maduro, although details of the conversation remain undisclosed.