On November 29, 2025, U.S. President Donald Trump declared via a social media post that the airspace above and surrounding Venezuela is to be considered closed. This announcement follows a warning from the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regarding a 'potentially hazardous situation' due to a deteriorating security environment and increased military activity in the region.

The FAA's warning is linked to a series of U.S. military operations targeting alleged drug trafficking activities in the Caribbean, which have reportedly resulted in numerous casualties. The Trump administration has accused Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro of involvement in drug trafficking, a claim that Maduro has denied, asserting that the U.S. is attempting to destabilize his government.

In response to the FAA's warning, Venezuela revoked operating rights for six major international airlines that had suspended flights to the country. The U.S. military presence in the Caribbean has been characterized by a buildup of forces, with Trump indicating that land operations against suspected drug traffickers would commence soon. The Venezuelan government has expressed its intent to resist any external attempts to undermine its sovereignty, emphasizing the potential humanitarian implications of increased military engagement in the region.

The Venezuelan government has condemned Trump's announcement as a violation of international law and a threat to its sovereignty. It has also accused the U.S. of attempting to undermine its airspace and has characterized the closure as a hostile act. Reports indicate that the U.S. has intensified its military operations, including deploying naval assets and conducting simulated attack runs, which have raised concerns about the potential for further violence.

Despite the escalating tensions, there have been indications of potential dialogue between the U.S. and Venezuela, with reports suggesting that Trump and Maduro discussed a possible meeting. However, the U.S. has also increased pressure on Maduro's government, including a recent offer of a reward for information leading to Maduro's arrest.

Critics of U.S. policy have highlighted the humanitarian implications of these actions, noting that air isolation could severely restrict access to essential supplies and medical care for the Venezuelan populace. Bipartisan calls for increased oversight regarding U.S. military actions in the region have emerged, particularly in light of reports of casualties resulting from military operations targeting drug trafficking.

Overall, the situation reflects the complexities of U.S.-Venezuela relations, where military strategies intersect with humanitarian concerns, raising questions about the broader impact of U.S. actions on the Venezuelan people.