URGENT UPDATE: A Texas lawmaker is currently stranded in the Caribbean after U.S. airstrikes in Caracas, Venezuela, have grounded all flights in and out of the region. State Rep. Venton Jones (D-Dallas) and his partner, Gregory, are anxiously awaiting news on when they can return home after their travel plans were abruptly halted on July 15, 2023.
Jones took to social media platform X, formerly known as Twitter, earlier today to share their predicament. “We were supposed to leave Sint Maarten today, but due to the airstrike that the President ordered overnight, all travel to/from the Caribbean is grounded,” he wrote. As the situation unfolds, Jones expressed concern about lodging, stating that local hotels and flights are already at full capacity due to the ongoing holiday rush.
The airstrikes, ordered by President Donald Trump, have created a chaotic travel scenario, with reports indicating that no planes are currently permitted to operate in the vicinity of Venezuela or the nearby islands. Jones anticipates significant delays in travel for at least a week, heightening the urgency of their situation.
In his heartfelt message, Jones also requested prayers for their quick and safe return, indicating the emotional toll this sudden disruption has taken on them. “Right now we are working on lodging with an expectation of being here until air travel is allowed. That’s what we know right now,” he added, revealing the uncertainty they face.
The geopolitical implications of the airstrikes are substantial. U.S. forces captured Nicolás Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, during the operation, which Trump announced via social media. Attorney General Pam Bondi confirmed that both will face charges in the U.S. after an indictment in New York. The airstrikes follow months of escalating U.S. pressure on Maduro’s regime, which is viewed by many Texas officials as illegitimate.
Local reactions vary significantly. While Republicans, including Sen. Ted Cruz, have praised Trump’s decisive action against Maduro, Democrats express concerns regarding the president’s unilateral approach. State Rep. James Talarico (D-Austin), currently running for Sen. John Cornyn’s seat, criticized the operation as part of a “deeply corrupt” arrangement between Trump and American oil executives.
As explosions and reports of low-flying aircraft reverberate through Caracas, the situation remains fluid. Power outages have been reported across the city, adding to the turmoil.
In a news conference later today, Trump stated, “We’re going to run Venezuela,” asserting that U.S. forces are already in place to manage the situation, although there are no immediate signs of U.S. governance in the country.
For those following the developments closely, it remains crucial to monitor updates on the travel restrictions affecting not only Jones and Gregory but potentially thousands of other travelers caught in the fallout of this military action.
Stay tuned for more updates as this situation continues to evolve.
