Explosions and Military Strikes in Caracas: United States Confirms Detention and Removal of Venezuela's Maduro

Multiple explosions occurred overnight in Caracas and other parts of Venezuela, resulting in significant unrest and widespread disruptions. According to reports, the United States authorized military operations targeting strategic sites across Venezuela, including the capital city. This escalation comes amid ongoing tensions between the two nations and persistent political instability within Venezuela.

Eyewitness videos broadcasted by international media outlets captured scenes of explosions and thick plumes of smoke rising over the city's skyline, particularly in the La Carlota region, home to a major Venezuelan Air Force base. Additional strikes reportedly targeted the Fuerte Tiuna military complex in southern Caracas, as well as the La Montaña barracks, a site of historical significance as the resting place of former President Hugo Chávez.

The Venezuelan government declared a state of national emergency in response to these attacks, citing coordinated assaults not only in Caracas but also in the states of Miranda, Aragua, and La Guaira. Infrastructure in these areas, including the Higuerote Airport, was reportedly affected, leading to widespread service disruptions. Power outages were documented in several districts of the capital, further complicating the situation for residents and emergency responders.

Visual evidence from local media depicted helicopters maneuvering over the city during the night, underscoring the scale of the military action. The United States Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) issued a flight ban over Venezuelan airspace and neighboring regions, restricting both commercial and private American flights due to continued military activity in the region. The affected areas include the coastal city of Maiquetía, the Caribbean island of Curaçao, Piarco in Trinidad, and San Juan in Puerto Rico.

According to sources cited by major U.S. networks, the operations were directly authorized by President Donald Trump, following a period of heightened sanctions and increased U.S. military presence in the Caribbean and surrounding waters. In recent weeks, the United States intensified its campaign against maritime trafficking, conducting numerous operations against vessels suspected of involvement in drug trade activities.

International reaction was swift, with Colombia's president calling for an emergency meeting of the United Nations Security Council to address the unfolding situation, highlighting the international community's concern over regional stability and the risks of broader conflict.

The Venezuelan administration, led by President Nicolás Maduro since 2013, has faced growing international isolation and internal dissent. The latest developments represent a significant escalation in the country's ongoing crisis, following earlier statements from U.S. officials indicating support for covert operations within Venezuela. The situation remains fluid, with reports indicating that President Maduro was detained and flown out of the country following the U.S.-led intervention.

As authorities continue to assess the full extent of the damage and restore order, the international community is closely monitoring the aftermath of these events and their implications for Venezuela's future governance and regional security.