Venezuela accuses US of military aggression after explosions hit Caracas

Multiple explosions were heard across Caracas in the early hours of Saturday, prompting power outages in several neighborhoods and triggering widespread panic. Witnesses reported at least seven near-simultaneous blasts around 2:00 a.m. local time, with helicopters and low-flying aircraft seen over the city.

According to eyewitness accounts, explosions were heard near military installations, including La Carlota Air Base and Fuerte Tiuna. Telecommunications disruptions and electricity cuts were also reported in nearby residential areas.

Venezuela denounces US action

In an official statement released later on Saturday, the Venezuelan government said it “rejects, repudiates, and denounces before the international community the extremely serious military aggression perpetrated by the current Government of the United States of America against Venezuelan territory.”

The statement claimed that the attacks targeted military infrastructure and were part of a broader effort aimed at undermining national sovereignty.

Trump administration aware of strikes

US officials told CBS News that the Trump administration was aware of reports involving explosions and aircraft over Caracas. According to US sources, President Donald Trump authorized strikes on sites inside Venezuela, including military facilities.

The US government has not yet issued a formal public statement confirming the details of the operation.

Regional reaction and calls for international action

Colombian President Gustavo Petro said Caracas was under attack and called for an emergency meeting of the United Nations and the Organization of American States.

“Caracas is being bombed. Venezuela is under missile attack,” Petro said in a post on social media, urging immediate international intervention.

State of emergency declared

Venezuelan authorities announced a state of emergency, accusing Washington of attempting to seize the country’s oil and mineral resources. Officials said military forces had been placed on high alert following the attacks.

President Nicolás Maduro has previously stated that Venezuela is prepared to respond to any foreign military action and has claimed to have mobilized millions of reserve and militia forces in recent months.

Rising US-Venezuela tensions

The incident comes amid escalating tensions between Washington and Caracas. The US government has accused Maduro of involvement in drug trafficking and claims his administration was illegitimately elected. Venezuelan officials have rejected the allegations, describing recent US actions—including seizures of oil tankers and maritime operations—as violations of international law.

Investigations into the full scope and impact of the explosions are ongoing, and further official statements are expected from both governments.