Archive · 20 May 2025
Venezuela Bans Flights from Colombia After Arrests
Venezuela has halted flights from Colombia.
The government says it arrested more than 30 people, including some from other countries, who were planning to cause problems before the upcoming elections.
The government claims these people were planning attacks and working with the opposition.
Colombia was told that flights will restart the day after the election.
Some opposition members are calling for people to not vote in the election, because they don't think it will be fair.
Venezuela banned flights from Colombia following arrests of over 30 individuals.
The arrests were announced ahead of legislative and regional elections.
Detainees include Venezuelans and foreign nationals, including Colombians, Mexicans, and Ukrainians.
The Venezuelan government alleges the group planned attacks and was linked to the opposition.
Colombia was informed flights will resume the day after the election.
- Who
- Venezuelan government, 21 Venezuelans, and 17 foreign nationals, including Colombians, Mexicans, and Ukrainians.
- What
- Venezuela banned flights from Colombia.
- When
- Following arrests on May 19, 2025, just before the May 25, 2025 elections.
- Where
- Venezuela and Colombia
- Why
- Due to arrests of people allegedly plotting activities to destabilize the country.
Venezuelan Government
Opposition/International Community
Alleged Conspiracy
Venezuelan Government
The government alleges an anti-government conspiracy involving foreign nationals and opposition members.
Opposition/International Community
No immediate comment on the arrests. Opposition members previously described their departure as an "international rescue operation".
Election Validity
Venezuelan Government
The government claims the elections can be held safely.
Opposition/International Community
Opposition calls for a boycott of the upcoming elections, after disputed presidential election.
- Country affected
- Colombia
- Number of People Arrested
- 38
- Venezuelan Citizens Arrested
- 21
- Foreign Nationals Arrested
- 17
- Country issuing flight ban
- Venezuela
- Where opposition members lived
- Diplomatic compound in Caracas
- Election Date
- May 25, 2025
