Venezuela declared a national emergency early Saturday after a series of powerful explosions struck the capital, Caracas, and several surrounding regions. The Venezuelan government accused the United States, under President Donald Trump, of carrying out coordinated military strikes, escalating already strained relations between the two countries.
According to official statements, loud explosions were heard around 2 am local time, accompanied by sounds resembling low-flying aircraft. Fires were reported at Fuerte Tiuna, Venezuela’s largest military complex, while additional blasts were confirmed in the states of Miranda, Aragua, and La Guaira.
President Nicolás Maduro described the incident as a case of “military aggression” and ordered the immediate implementation of national defense plans. He also declared a state of external disturbance, calling on social and political groups across the country to mobilize in response.
“The Bolivarian Government calls on all social and political forces to activate mobilization plans and reject this imperialist attack,” the government said in a statement quoted by international news agencies.
While no official confirmation has been issued by the White House or the Pentagon, US media outlets, including CBS News and Fox News, cited unnamed Trump administration officials who reportedly confirmed that American forces were involved. A CBS reporter stated on social media platform X that President Trump had ordered strikes on sites inside Venezuela, including military facilities.
In response to the unfolding situation, the US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) imposed an immediate ban on US commercial flights operating in Venezuelan airspace, citing “ongoing military activity.”
The explosions come amid rising tensions between Washington and Caracas, following President Trump’s recent warnings of possible military action related to drug trafficking and regional security concerns.
Videos circulating on social media showed residents fleeing buildings as smoke rose over parts of Caracas. However, authorities have not yet released details regarding casualties or the full extent of the damage.
International observers are closely monitoring the situation, as the incident raises concerns over regional stability, diplomatic fallout, and global energy markets. Further clarification from US officials is still awaited.
