In a decisive move aimed at combating illicit maritime activity off its coast, President Donald Trump issued an executive order that effectively closes US airspace to Venezuelan-flagged vessels operating near the country. The action comes after reports of multiple airstrikes conducted by the United States Navy in international waters targeting suspected drug transport boats linked to Venezuela.
“The airspace above and surrounding Venezuela is now closed entirely,” President Trump stated unequivocally, directing a warning towards airlines, pilots, and those engaged in illegal trafficking operations. This declaration mirrors earlier concerns raised by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), which advised heightened vigilance from commercial operators plying these waters due to escalating security risks.
Furthermore, addressing military personnel during a Thanksgiving call with service members, President Trump outlined an expanded operation targeting drug cartels not only at sea but also on land. “We’ll be starting to stop them by land as well,” he confirmed, noting that while maritime operations require precision, they will commence swiftly.
Since September, the administration has documented and retaliated against numerous ships transiting through Caribbean and Pacific routes, citing evidence of narcotics smuggling intended for American shores. This intervention marks a significant escalation in the US government’s efforts to address drug trafficking originating from Venezuela without international consent or direct engagement with foreign sovereignty concerns on land.
