US closes airspace near Puerto Rico

US closes airspace near Puerto Rico as media reports preparations for operation in Venezuela

As reported by Newsweek, the US government temporarily closed the airspace near Puerto Rico, without disclosing official reasons.
The closure covers the part of the Caribbean Sea where there is increased activity of the US Air Force.

Analysts cited by the publication suggest that this could be a stage of preparation for possible air or combined operations against targets in Venezuela.

Satellite images

New satellite images released by Western think tanks show overturning transport aircraft and fuel tankers to bases in the region, including air bases San Juan (Puerto Rico) and Curacao.
Also noticed temporary concentration of equipment on the runways and preparing positions for ground support forces.

«The movement of US troops in the region looks like a rehearsal for a deployment scenario within 24-48 hours,» Newsweek quoted one military expert as saying.

Geopolitical context

Washington in recent weeks increased pressure on the regime of Nicolas Maduro after the breakdown of agreements to hold presidential elections under the supervision of international observers.
The US Department of Defence has not yet confirmed information about possible hostilities, stating only that there are «training activities» in the Caribbean region.

At the same time, analysts believe that the closure of airspace near Puerto Rico may indicate US readiness to respond quickly in case of escalation in Venezuela.