Caracas: A series of powerful explosions were reported in Venezuela’s capital in the early hours of Saturday, sending plumes of dark smoke into the sky and triggering widespread concern amid rising political and military tensions involving the United States.
Witnesses in Caracas said the disturbances began around 2 am local time, with loud blasts heard across parts of the city. Images and videos shared online appeared to show aircraft overhead and thick smoke rising from several areas, though the exact locations and cause of the explosions could not be independently confirmed. News agency Reuters said it was unable to immediately verify the authenticity of the footage circulating on social media.
Residents also reported a power failure in the southern part of the capital, close to a key military installation, adding to fears of a targeted incident. Authorities did not issue an immediate official statement explaining the situation.
The reported explosions come against the backdrop of a deepening standoff between Caracas and Washington. Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro has repeatedly accused the administration of former US president Donald Trump of attempting to overthrow his government in order to gain control over the country’s vast oil resources.
Last month, Trump announced a naval blockade aimed at vessels sanctioned by the United States that enter or leave Venezuelan waters, describing it as part of a broader strategy to increase pressure on Maduro. The move was accompanied by expanded sanctions and a stepped-up military presence in the region, including the deployment of an aircraft carrier, warships and advanced fighter jets in the Caribbean.
Reacting to the reports, Colombian President Gustavo Petro posted a stark warning on social media platform X, claiming that Caracas was under attack and calling for an urgent meeting of international bodies such as the United Nations and the Organization of American States. Petro did not offer evidence or details to support his claims but has consistently criticised Washington’s hardline approach toward Venezuela.
In recent weeks, Trump has also acknowledged US strikes on suspected drug-trafficking operations linked to Venezuela, including what he described as an attack on a coastal area used to load narcotics onto boats. It marked the first publicly known land-based action by the United States inside Venezuela during the pressure campaign. While Trump did not specify which agency carried out the operation, some media reports have attributed earlier actions to US intelligence agencies.
The US administration has long accused Venezuela of playing a role in drug smuggling into North America, an allegation the Maduro government has firmly denied. Several countries have condemned US attacks on vessels suspected of trafficking, calling them unlawful and warning that they risk further destabilising the region.
As uncertainty surrounds the events in Caracas, observers say the situation highlights the fragile security climate in Venezuela and the growing risk of escalation amid ongoing international confrontation.
