Shortly before deciding to close Venezuela’s airspace, President Trump apparently issued a clear ultimatum to Nicolas Maduro, urging him to leave the country.
In a phone conversation with Caracas, Washington offered to facilitate the evacuation of Maduro, his wife, and their son, but only if he agreed to resign immediately. The discussions didn’t go anywhere, and soon after, U.S. officials noted a significant escalation from the American government.
Maduro’s request for a “global amnesty for the crimes committed by him and his group” was turned down by the U.S., creating a deadlock. There were also demands from Washington regarding military control and the promise of free elections, reminiscent of Nicaragua’s Violeta Chamorro in 1991. However, Caracas was unwilling to comply.
On Saturday, Trump announced that Venezuelan airspace would be deemed “totally closed.” Reportedly, Maduro’s government attempted to arrange another conversation with Washington, yet there was no response.
Experts believe Maduro and key parts of his administration face a significant threat as his regime struggles with weakened military support and internal corruption. A former Venezuelan diplomat mentioned that the military’s capabilities have deteriorated due to various factors, including years of sanctions and defections.
One expert remarked that the airspace closure served as a warning that military action could follow, targeting command infrastructure in Venezuela. The targets have been tracked over years, leading to a scenario where the elimination of crucial figures could happen, albeit not all at once.
Trump, while speaking to reporters, advised against overinterpreting the airspace closure declaration when questioned if an attack was forthcoming. He warned that Maduro’s options were limited and his military has become increasingly ineffective.
Venezuela’s military, once among the strongest in Latin America, has seen its capabilities severely decline. Equipment remains poorly maintained, and many resources are outdated. The former diplomat explained that Russian-sourced materials are now falling apart, and the military lacks not only proper supplies but also operational support.
Ahead of the airspace closure, the U.S. also designated the Cartel de los Soles, linked to the Venezuelan government, as a foreign terrorist organization. This cartel transformed a major oil company into a drug-trafficking entity, misusing its financial access to international markets.
The cartel allegedly utilized military jets to transport cocaine from Colombia, process it in Venezuela, and then distribute it to Central America and Europe. I suppose this involvement with drug trafficking has become more pronounced, raising alarms even at the European level, where the Cartel de los Soles received similar designations.
There’s a growing concern that these drug funds may be financing terrorist activities as well. In the meantime, America is amplifying its military engagements aimed at dismantling the drug networks linked to Venezuela, including strikes near suspected drug vessels.
A source stated that any military operation would be initiated at Trump’s discretion, highlighting that he’s mobilizing numerous resources. There’s speculation that the moment for action is nearing as Maduro’s backers appear increasingly strained and preoccupied with domestic challenges.
This moment of vulnerability presents a rare opportunity for change, as Maduro’s regime faces internal pressures for removal. Many Venezuelans have indicated their desire for democratic solutions and have resorted to both peaceful protests and outreach for international support.
Despite the severe challenges they’ve faced, including alleged human rights abuses within the military ranks, the Venezuelan populace remains steadfast in their call for reform and accountability in leadership.
