Venezuela Denies U.S. Control of Maiquetía Airport Amid Aid Reports

Venezuela's interim government, led by Delcy Rodríguez, has vehemently denied claims that the United States has taken control of the Simón Bolívar International Airport in Maiquetía.

"There is no way the United States or any other country controls an institution in the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela," the interim government stated via its X account, Miraflores al Momento. The statement reaffirmed Venezuela's commitment to positive cooperation with global governments within the framework of its sovereignty, particularly during the current "difficult moment."

The denial comes after a regional media outlet in Zulia reported that the U.S. Air Force had seized control of the airport to ensure the arrival of humanitarian aid. Digital media outlet El Pitazo also reported that U.S. military teams and specialized personnel had been operating the control tower and runway areas since Monday, citing aeronautical sources.

These reports suggested that the number of Venezuelan air traffic controllers was limited, partly due to personnel affected by recent earthquakes. A military camp was reportedly set up on the airport's main runway. Official figures indicate the recent double earthquake has caused significant casualties and damage across the region.