A serious conflict between the United States and Venezuela is becoming more dangerous. The problems include military action, a surprising phone call between presidents, and a new order closing Venezuelan airspace. The crisis is connected to old US accusations that Venezuela helps drug traffickers. It is now causing worry about regional peace and questions in the US Congress.
The situation became worse in early September. The US began a strong anti-drug operation in the Caribbean. The US military has attacked boats suspected of carrying illegal drugs. More than eighty people have died. A news report says that on September 2nd, the US attacked survivors from an earlier fight. This report has caused a big argument among US politicians about the rules for military action.
During this time, President Donald Trump had a phone call with Venezuela's leader, Nicolás Maduro, in October. Trump did not give details, only saying, "It was a phone call." The call did not reduce tensions.
Then, last Saturday, President Trump used social media to make a strong announcement. He said the airspace above and around Venezuela was "closed in its entirety." Venezuela called this a "colonialist threat." It then took permission away from six international airlines and stopped some US flights.
Now, civilian air travel is badly disrupted. In the US Congress, politicians from both parties want more information about the military strikes. Experts think the US government is considering more actions, including secret operations.
The US says it must fight drug networks protected by Venezuela's government. Venezuela says this is just an excuse for an attack. With more military forces in the area and communication breaking down, a peaceful solution seems difficult. This could mean a long and risky confrontation.