Caracas:
Venezuela was placed under emergency conditions early Saturday after a series of explosions and unusual aerial activity were reported in and around the capital, prompting the government to accuse the United States of carrying out hostile actions on its territory.
According to official statements, at least seven blasts were heard around 2 am local time, accompanied by low-flying aircraft over Caracas. Witnesses reported seeing smoke rising from a hangar at a military facility, while another defence installation in the city experienced a power outage. The incidents caused panic in several neighbourhoods, with residents rushing outdoors to assess the situation.
In a strongly worded response, the Venezuelan government alleged that both civilian and military sites across multiple states had been targeted. Authorities described the developments as an act of “aggression” and blamed Washington for what they termed an imperialist assault. The White House and the Pentagon did not immediately issue any response to the allegations.
The government urged its supporters to mobilise in protest, calling on political organisations and social groups to take to the streets in defence of national sovereignty. “All forces must unite to reject this attack,” the statement said, appealing for mass mobilisation.
President Nicolás Maduro was said to have ordered the full activation of national defence protocols. Officials also announced the declaration of a “state of external disturbance,” signalling heightened security measures across the country.
The escalation comes at a sensitive moment, as the US military has recently intensified operations against vessels it claims are involved in drug trafficking in the region. Just a day earlier, Venezuelan authorities had indicated a willingness to explore dialogue with Washington on joint efforts to combat narcotics smuggling.
As tensions rise, uncertainty remains over the exact nature of the overnight incidents, with international observers closely watching developments in the already strained relationship between Caracas and Washington.
