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The decision by the Venezuelan government to revoke the licenses of airlines that suspended flights to the country following a warning from the United States has sparked backlash in a pro-government media outlet in Türkiye.
Last week, the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) advised civilian aircraft to exercise caution when flying over Venezuelan airspace due to "worsening security conditions and increased military activities." Following this warning, several carriers, including Turkish Airlines, suspended their flights to Caracas on Nov. 23.
While there has been no official statement from the government in Ankara regarding the revocation of Turkish Airlines' license, one media outlet close to the ruling Justice and Development Party (AK Party) expressed strong disapproval.
Recalling Maduro’s past remarks that "Türkiye is everything to us," the pro-government newspaper Yeni Akit described the decision as a "scandal."
The report characterized the harsh retaliation by the Caracas administration as a major "disappointment," noting that Venezuela accused these airlines of "participating in state terrorism supported by the U.S."
In contrast, Venezuelan Foreign Minister Ivan Gil Pinto thanked Iran for not cancelling its flights.
"On behalf of President Nicolas Maduro, we would like to express our sincere thanks to the Government of the Islamic Republic of Iran for firmly condemning the recent unilateral step by the United States to close Venezuelan airspace," Pinto said.
"Iran's brave and decisive stance in defending Venezuela's national sovereignty and territorial integrity is deeply aligned with the attitude of our people."
Tensions have been further fueled by reports speculating about Maduro's future. The Washington Post, citing a confidential source, recently suggested that Maduro could be exiled to Türkiye.
"Türkiye is a perfect place for him. Maduro trusts Erdogan. Erdogan has good relations with Trump," the source claimed.
Republican Senator Lindsey Graham also targeted Maduro, stating, "President Trump's firm determination to end this madness in Venezuela will save the lives of countless American citizens... I heard that Türkiye and Iran are very beautiful this season."
The diplomatic row comes amid a broader crackdown. The U.S. recently designated the "Cartel de los Soles," allegedly led by Maduro and top officials, as a Foreign Terrorist Organization (FTO).
Venezuela dismissed this as a pretext for intervention.
In late August, the U.S. deployed a naval force, including submarines and warships, off the coast of Venezuela.
U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth stated the military was ready for operations, including regime change. In response, Maduro announced the mobilization of 4.5 million militia members to repel any attack.
On Nov. 29, President Trump announced a total closure of the airspace in and around Venezuela. Venezuela has since filed a complaint with the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), citing a violation of sovereignty.
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