Multiple explosions rocked Venezuela’s capital, Caracas, in the early hours of Saturday, triggering panic among residents and raising concerns amid escalating tensions between the United States and the government of President Nicolás Maduro.
According to reports, at least seven explosions were heard across different parts of the city, while low-flying aircraft were seen overhead. Witnesses quoted by Reuters said the southern part of Caracas, near a major military base, experienced a power outage following the blasts. The Associated Press also reported hearing multiple explosions accompanied by aircraft activity.
Residents Report Gunfire, Panic on Streets
Eyewitnesses described scenes of confusion and fear as loud sounds echoed across the capital. People in several neighbourhoods reportedly ran out into the streets, with residents visible from a distance in different parts of Caracas. Bloomberg reported that gunfire was heard in multiple areas of the city, adding to the sense of alarm.
Unverified visuals circulating on social media allegedly captured the moment the explosions struck, though the authenticity of these videos has not been independently confirmed.
US Officials Aware, No Official Confirmation Yet
Officials in the Trump administration are aware of reports of explosions and aircraft activity over Caracas, CBS News reported citing sources. However, no official statement has so far been issued by either the Venezuelan government or the US Pentagon regarding the cause of the blasts.
Explosions Amid Rising US–Venezuela Hostility
The incidents come against the backdrop of sharply deteriorating relations between Washington and Caracas. The Donald Trump-led administration has taken multiple actions against President Maduro’s government, including the seizure of Venezuelan oil tankers and at least one airstrike on land earlier.
Trump has previously warned of possible ground strikes against Venezuela, intensifying fears of direct military confrontation. The US military has also conducted a deadly maritime campaign in the Caribbean Sea and eastern Pacific Ocean, targeting boats accused of drug smuggling.
According to details released by the US military, the campaign has resulted in at least 107 deaths across no fewer than 30 strikes.
Maduro Rejects US Allegations
President Nicolás Maduro has strongly denied any links to criminal activity, accusing the United States of attempting to overthrow his government to gain access to Venezuela’s vast oil reserves and rare-earth mineral resources.
Trump has repeatedly spoken about the possibility of land operations in Venezuela as part of efforts to pressure Maduro to step down, alongside expanding sanctions.
Uncertainty Persists
As of now, the cause of the explosions remains unclear, and there has been no confirmation of casualties or damage. The lack of official statements from both Caracas and Washington has only added to speculation, with the blasts fuelling fears of further escalation in an already volatile standoff.