Venezuela has accused the United States of launching attacks on civilian and military installations, following a series of explosions that rattled Caracas early Saturday morning. At least seven explosions were reported around 2 a.m. local time, prompting panic among residents and a swift response from the Venezuelan government.
The Venezuelan government claims that U.S. military action has targeted sites across multiple states, including Caracas. As the situation unfolded, smoke was observed rising from a military base hangar, while another installation in the capital experienced power outages. Witnesses described the scene as chaotic, with many fleeing to the streets. “The whole ground shook. This is horrible. We heard explosions and planes,” said Carmen Hidalgo, a 21-year-old office worker who was returning from a birthday party when the explosions occurred.
Government Response and Calls for Mobilization
In an official statement, the Venezuelan government called for its supporters to mobilize in response to what they termed an “imperialist attack.” The statement urged, “People to the streets!” and highlighted President Nicolás Maduro‘s orders to implement national defense plans and declare a “state of external disturbance.”
This incident is part of escalating tensions between Venezuela and the U.S., particularly concerning military operations targeting alleged drug-smuggling activities in the region. In recent days, the U.S. military has conducted strikes against boats suspected of being involved in drug trafficking. On Friday, Venezuela expressed willingness to negotiate with the U.S. regarding joint efforts to combat drug-related crimes.
U.S. Military Operations and Broader Implications
These developments follow a series of U.S. military actions that have been characterized as necessary to counter drug trafficking. Since early September, the U.S. has reportedly conducted 35 known strikes against boats, resulting in at least 115 casualties, according to figures released by the Trump administration. The Pentagon has not commented on the Venezuelan claims, referring inquiries to the White House, which did not respond immediately.
Additionally, U.S. President Donald Trump has made statements suggesting a potential escalation of military actions against Venezuela, including threats of strikes on land. The U.S. has also seized oil tankers operating under sanctions off the coast of Venezuela as part of a broader strategy to apply economic pressure on the South American nation.
As tensions rise, both nations appear to be entrenched in a complicated conflict that intertwines military action with accusations of drug trafficking and geopolitical maneuvering. The situation remains fluid, with the potential for further developments affecting both domestic stability in Venezuela and U.S. foreign policy in the region.
