Former President Donald Trump has issued a strong warning, stating that any Venezuelan aircraft deemed to endanger United States naval ships would be targeted and shot down. This declaration highlights escalating tensions in the bilateral relationship between the two countries. In response to these comments and the broader geopolitical climate, Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro asserted that while “differences” exist between the nations, these disagreements do not provide justification for a “military conflict.” Maduro’s statement underscores a call for de-escalation amidst ongoing diplomatic strains.