On 3 January 2026, the United States launched a military operation in Caracas, resulting in the capture and extraction of President Nicolás Maduro.
Latest Updates
10 February 2026
Correspondents Globalpandi SA report that the domestic political situation in Venezuela has generally stabilised under the interim authorities, led by acting President Delcy Rodríguez.
Venezuela’s ports and terminals have remained operational nationwide, and no general closure orders or blanket restrictions on commercial shipping have been issued by the authorities.
Read the Globalpandi circular here.
7 January 2026
Globalpandi SA correspondents brings us this update.
The status of commercial public ports handling bulk, breakbulk, and containerized cargoes remains largely unchanged. No specific instructions, orders, or navigational restrictions have, to date, been issued by the maritime authority (INEA) or the port authority (Bolipuertos, S.A.) altering normal operating procedures.
Port Operations:
Port of Puerto Cabello is confirmed to be operating normally, with bulk carriers and container or general cargo vessels currently alongside and working without reported operational difficulties, and additional vessels awaiting their scheduled berthing at anchorage.
Port of La Guaira has been militarized and is currently subject to restricted access; however, available information indicates that port operations are continuing without significant delays at this stage.
Port and terminal complex of Jose, in Anzoátegui State, is currently experiencing a combination of heightened security measures and limited operational activity, reportedly mainly as a result of the U.S. oil blockade affecting sanctioned tankers.
Port of Cumana and Maracaibo, Bajo Grande oil terminal are operating normally.
Read the full circular here.
6 January 2026
U.S. Operation in Venezuela Sparks Political and Commercial Uncertainty
On January 3, 2026, the United States launched a three-hour aerial operation in Caracas, resulting in the capture and extraction of President Nicolás Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, who are now facing judicial proceedings in New York. The move has created a significant power vacuum, with Vice President Delcy Rodríguez assuming the interim presidency under direct U.S. oversight, according to statements by President Trump.
Impact on Ports and Logistics
Airspace Restrictions: Despite some airlines announcing flight resumptions, official U.S. guidance maintains February 2 as the reopening date for Venezuelan airspace.
Military Presence: No U.S. troop deployments have been observed on Venezuelan soil, despite political rhetoric.
Port Operations: National ports have reverted to ISPS Security Level 1. While non-sanctioned vessels can operate, they face high-seas documentation checks and delays in sailing clearances due to stalled inspections by Venezuelan authorities.
Commercial Activity: State oil company PDVSA has suspended all product transactions. Iron ore exports remain permitted but falling prices and operational risks at ports pose challenges for shipowners and charterers.
3 January 2026
Situation:
On 3 January 2026, U.S. aircraft carried out air strikes on strategic military installations in Venezuela (Caracas, La Guaira, Higuerote, etc.), targeting air defense systems and military vehicles.
President Nicolás Maduro was captured and flown out of the country to face U.S. courts.
Venezuela declared a state of commotion (constitutional emergency) allowing temporary extraordinary measures while protecting non-derogable rights (life, due process, habeas corpus).
Vice President Delcy Rodríguez assumes presidential duties during Maduro’s absence.
Port Operations:
La Guaira port is militarized with restricted access, but operations continue without major delays.
Other ports (Puerto Cabello, Maracaibo, Guanta, Orinoco River, Jose Terminal) are operating normally.
Vessel crews are advised to remain on board.
Source: NorthStandard
