A series of explosions was heard across Venezuela’s capital, Caracas, in the early hours of Saturday, with thick plumes of smoke seen rising near a major military installation, raising fears of a significant security escalation amid heightened tensions with the United States.
According to reports by Al Jazeera and The Associated Press, at least seven explosions echoed through parts of the city. Video footage circulating online showed fireballs and heavy smoke billowing from a structure near a body of water, while residents reported a subsequent power outage in the affected area.
Al Jazeera correspondent Lucia Newman said the explosions occurred near or around the Fortuna military base, one of Caracas’ most strategic installations. She noted that the blasts were followed by a blackout, adding that the cause of the incident remained unclear.
“There is a growing presumption that the United States may be linked to the incident, though it could also be an act of internal sabotage by elements within the military seeking to oust President Nicolás Maduro,” Newman said.
The Associated Press also reported sightings of low-flying aircraft over southern Caracas shortly after the explosions, further fuelling speculation of a coordinated military operation.
The incident comes against the backdrop of escalating diplomatic and military tensions between Caracas and Washington. In recent days, President Maduro indicated openness to negotiations with the United States on combating drug trafficking, while remaining cautious about reports of a CIA-backed strike on Venezuelan territory.
In an interview aired on Thursday, recorded on New Year’s Eve, Maduro adopted a conciliatory tone toward Washington but reiterated accusations that the United States was seeking to overthrow his government and gain control of Venezuela’s oil resources. Asked directly about a possible U.S. attack, he said the matter could be addressed “in a few days.”
That same day, the U.S. military announced it had struck five alleged drug-smuggling boats, killing at least five people. U.S. officials said the latest operations brought the total number of known boat strikes in the Caribbean and eastern Pacific to 35, with at least 115 people reportedly killed, including Venezuelans and Colombians.
Following Saturday’s explosions, the Venezuelan government accused the United States of launching coordinated attacks on both civilian and military targets, describing the incident as “military aggression.” Authorities said the alleged strikes also affected the states of Miranda, Aragua, and La Guaira, targeting strategic infrastructure and security facilities.
President Maduro subsequently declared a nationwide state of emergency, placing security forces on high alert and ordering measures to protect critical infrastructure.
As of the time of reporting, the United States had not issued an official response to the allegations.
Never miss a moment! Get the stories shaping Nigeria, delivered straight to your phone. Follow Peoplesdaily Newspaper on WhatsApp for breaking news, exclusive reports, and the headlines everyone will be talking about, before anyone else.
