The Trump administration is closely monitoring reports of explosions and aircraft sightings over the capital of Venezuela, Caracas, early Saturday morning. Sources revealed to CBS News, the US partner of the BBC, that officials are aware of these alarming developments. This incident occurs amidst escalating pressure from the Trump administration on Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, who has been accused of facilitating drug trafficking and crime that permeates into the United States.
Witnesses reported multiple near-simultaneous explosions in various locations throughout Caracas, particularly around military installations. Notable sites affected include La Carlota, a military airfield situated in the heart of the city, as well as the prominent military base, Fuerte Tiuna. Eyewitness accounts and videos have emerged, depicting the chaos of apparent explosions at these locations. Furthermore, several surrounding communities are experiencing power outages, adding to the unrest.
In addition to the explosions, there are unverified reports of aircraft flying over the city, further heightening the tension in the already volatile atmosphere. These developments coincide with a period of increased hostility between the United States and Venezuela. The US has intensified military actions against speedboats in the Caribbean, which are alleged to be transporting illegal drugs, further exacerbating the strain in US-Venezuelan relations.
The backdrop of these recent events is marked by the US government's ongoing assertion that President Nicolás Maduro's election was illegitimate. The Trump administration claims that Maduro is directly involved in drug smuggling operations that undermine regional stability. In response, the Venezuelan government has characterized the recent actions taken by Washington, including the confiscation of sanctioned oil tankers, as part of a concerted effort to destabilize Maduro's regime and exert control over Venezuela’s valuable oil reserves.
As the situation evolves, the international community watches closely, with implications for US foreign policy and regional security. The Trump administration appears committed to addressing what it perceives as a significant threat from the Venezuelan government, while Maduro's administration continues to defend its sovereignty amid external pressures.