Panama Imposes Aviation Retaliation Against Venezuela Post Controversial Election

Panama's civil aviation authority has been ordered to apply a 'retaliation measure' against Venezuela following the controversial re-election of President Nicolas Maduro. Panama has suspended diplomatic relations, withdrawn its personnel, and has halted flights amid claims of election interference. Regional leaders call for a vote review.

Panama's civil aviation authority has been mandated to enforce a 'retaliation measure' against Venezuela commencing Wednesday evening, according to a cabinet spokesperson on Tuesday. Details surrounding the measure remain unclear.

President Nicolas Maduro's claim of winning a third term sparked controversy, as the opposition, independent pollsters, and several international leaders deemed the results implausible. Panama responded by suspending diplomatic relations with Venezuela and recalling its diplomatic personnel until a comprehensive review of the disputed election is conducted. This order followed an incident involving a plane carrying former presidents blocked from observing the vote.

Authorities from both nations announced flight suspensions on Tuesday, with Panama halting flights to Venezuela and Venezuela pausing flights to the Dominican Republic over alleged interference in national affairs. Panamanian President Jose Raul Mulino and Dominican President Luis Abinader have both urged a reassessment of the election outcomes. The Organization of American States is convening on Wednesday to deliberate on the results, while Costa Rica has offered political asylum to opposition leaders.

(With inputs from agencies.)