CARACAS – In a surprise move ahead of local and parliamentary elections on Sunday, May 25, Venezuela has suspended all incoming flights from neighboring Colombia. The announcement was made by Venezuelan Minister of Interior Diosdado Cabello, who cited concerns over the arrival of alleged "mercenaries" from Colombia. 

During a press conference, Cabello stated that he had issued immediate instructions to halt all air traffic from Colombia to Venezuela. “We will not allow foreign interference,” the minister said, claiming that 38 individuals have been detained in recent days, including 17 foreigners, though he did not provide further details on their nationalities or alleged activities. 

Venezuelan authorities have frequently warned of supposed plots and assassination attempts targeting President Nicolás Maduro, the national power grid, and other strategic facilities. Government officials often accuse the domestic opposition of colluding with the United States in attempts to destabilize the country. These allegations have been consistently denied by both opposition leaders and U.S. officials. 

The flight suspension adds to mounting political tension as the country approaches the elections. Critics of the Maduro regime have already expressed concerns about transparency and fairness in the electoral process. The coming days are likely to be closely watched by the international community amid growing scrutiny of Venezuela’s internal security measures and human rights record.