Related videos:
The Venezuelan government followed through on its threat and revoked the flight concession for several international airlines on Wednesday, accusing them of "joining the terrorist actions" promoted by the United States, which maintains an unprecedented military presence in the Caribbean.
The government released a list of airlines that are not allowed to fly to Venezuela, which includes Iberia, TAP, Avianca, Latam Colombia, Turkish Airlines, and Gol.
Hours before the announcement, the Minister of the Interior, Diosdado Cabello, warned that the country "decides who flies and who does not," stating that the government "reserves the right of admission."
Cabello insists that Venezuela "prefers to preserve its dignity rather than accept foreign impositions."
The measure leaves the country increasingly isolated, with only a few airlines, such as Conviasa, Avior, Copa, and Wingo, still operating in Venezuelan territory.
This Wednesday, a U.S. plane carrying 175 deported migrants landed in Caracas, which the Venezuelan government termed as evidence of Washington's "double standards."
Cabello also called for the "popular organization for the defense of the country" in response to the increased presence of U.S. military forces in the region.
He also described the Dominican Republic's decision to allow the use of two airports by the U.S. in its "Lanza del Sur" operation as "imperial madness."
The International Airports of the Americas and the military airport of San Isidro, both in Santo Domingo, will allocate areas for the transport of American equipment and technical personnel.
Filed under: