A dramatic and escalating military situation unfolded early Saturday as loud explosions rocked the Venezuelan capital Caracas and other regions, with reports of low-flying aircraft, widespread panic and power outages. Eyewitnesses captured blasts and smoke over various parts of the city in the early hours of the morning.
US Military Action and Maduro’s Capture Claim
Former U.S. President Donald Trump announced on social media that the United States had carried out a large-scale strike against Venezuela and that President Nicolás Maduro and his wife had been captured and flown out of the country in what he described as a successful operation.
Trump said the operation was conducted in conjunction with U.S. law enforcement and promised further details in a press conference scheduled later today.
Venezuelan Government’s Response
The Venezuelan government has denounced the strikes as “grave military aggression” and rejected the claims of Maduro’s capture, demanding proof of life from authorities. Vice President Delcy Rodríguez stated that the government is currently unaware of Maduro’s whereabouts.
President Maduro earlier declared a national state of emergency and called for mobilisation to defend the nation amid exploding blasts and the appearance of military aircraft over several states, including Miranda, Aragua, and La Guaira.
Reports from the Ground
Local residents reported multiple explosions around 2 a.m. local time. Videos and eye-witness posts show successive blasts and aircraft overhead in the capital and nearby regions. A power outage was also reported in the southern part of Caracas.
International Reactions and Legal Questions
The sudden escalation and claims of regime capture are drawing global concern. Venezuela condemned the U.S. operations as a violation of international law and sovereign rights, while neighbouring countries and international bodies are reportedly discussing emergency diplomatic measures.
As of now, official confirmation from the Pentagon or Venezuelan military about the exact circumstances of Maduro’s situation remains limited. Independent verification of the capture has not been confirmed by international news agencies.