Airlines Suspend Venezuela Flights Amid US Military Activity

Six airlines suspend Venezuela flights as the U.S. deploys a massive naval force amid escalating tensions over alleged drug operations. Is Maduro seeking peaceful dialogue against unjustified U.S. aggression, or does Venezuela's criminal regime require military pressure?

Published 10 hours ago

Airlines Suspend Venezuela Flights Amid US Military Activity

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Above: Nicolás Maduro speaks during a march as part of the "Venezuelan Student Day" at Miraflores on Nov. 21, 2025. Image credit: Jesus Vargas/Getty Images

The Spin

Anti-Trump narrative

Maduro's call for diplomacy shows genuine leadership while Trump escalates military threats without evidence. The Venezuelan president seeks peaceful dialogue and respects international law, contrasting sharply with America's aggressive naval deployment of 15,000 troops and deadly strikes on vessels that killed 83 people, further deepening tensions across the already fragile regional political landscape.

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Pro-Trump narrative

Venezuela has become a criminal state where Maduro leads drug cartels and terrorist organizations that threaten America directly. The military deployment signifies necessary pressure against a regime that has systematically destroyed democracy, killed protesters and exported violence through groups like Tren de Aragua across Latin America. The long and violent abuse of power by Maduro's regime is coming to an end.

EL PAÍS English

María Corina Machado on X

Narrative C

Only a slow, negotiated transition — not a U.S.-led regime overthrow — is the path to restoring democracy in Venezuela. Coercive force risks chaos, backlash and long-term instability. Instead, a gradual shift built on dialogue, amnesties and shared institutions can reassure Maduro's circle, maintain order and pave the way for fair elections and genuine democratic renewal.

Foreign Affairs United States Institute of Peace