Venezuelan Vice President Delcy Rodriguez accused the United States of attempting to impose an airspace blockade on Venezuela in response to a request by opposition figure Maria Corina Machado.

In a statement made early Sunday, Rodriguez said, "The United States government is responding to Maria Machado's request in an attempt to blockade Venezuela's airspace."

Caracas maintains that the US' deployment is designed to undermine regional peace and stability, while far-right opposition figures have publicly echoed Pentagon talking points. Venezuelan media also noted that opposition leader Maria Corina Machado departed the country on Sunday after being accused of “promoting an invasion and supporting any kind of attack against her nation.”

Caracas plans repatriation for stranded Venezuelans

Rodriguez stated that President Maduro has instructed officials to prepare a plan to facilitate the return of Venezuelan citizens stranded abroad, and to ensure travel routes remain open for those needing to leave the country.

"In the face of this aggression, President Maduro has ordered the development of a plan for the return of Venezuelans stranded in other countries," she said, adding that efforts will also be made to secure departure options for outbound travellers.

Rodriguez emphasised that Caracas has "activated all multilateral mechanisms in accordance with international law" to counter what it considers an illegal and hostile action.

She concluded her statement by affirming that "Venezuela will always prevail."