Caracas, Venezuela — Venezuela’s President Nicolás Maduro declared a state of emergency on Saturday following multiple explosions in the capital that left parts of southern Caracas without electricity. The blasts, which residents reported near key military installations, sparked panic across the city as smoke plumes rose over residential areas.
Explosions Rock Southern Caracas
According to eyewitnesses, at least seven explosions occurred in southern Caracas, near the Fortuna military base. Several residents also reported seeing low-flying aircraft in the area. Smoke and flames were visible in footage circulating online, showing fire near a structure adjacent to a body of water.
Al Jazeera and Reuters correspondents on the ground confirmed the loud blasts and heavy smoke, indicating the possibility of military-related activity. Authorities have not provided a detailed casualty report, but thousands of people experienced power outages as a result of the explosions.
Maduro Orders Full Defense Measures
In response, President Maduro issued a statement blaming the United States for “military aggression” targeting both civilian and military installations. He ordered the activation of all national defense plans and warned that Venezuela would confront any perceived imperialist threats.
Maduro accused the US of targeting installations not only in Caracas but also in Miranda, Aragua, and La Guaira, claiming the attacks were aimed at controlling Venezuela’s oil and mineral resources. He stated, “These attempts will not succeed,” and described the strikes as unacceptable aggression intended to pressure him to leave office.
Escalating US-Venezuela Tensions
The incident comes amid heightened tensions between the two nations. Former US President Donald Trump and successive US administrations have threatened military action in Venezuela in the past. The US has also expanded sanctions and naval operations, including strikes on ships allegedly involved in drug trafficking in the Caribbean and Pacific.
Analysts warn that the latest explosions in Caracas signal a potential escalation of the US-Venezuela conflict. Such incidents could have serious regional implications, affecting political stability, energy markets, and security in Latin America.
While Maduro’s government has framed the situation as defensive action against foreign aggression, international observers continue to monitor the events closely, noting the risk of further confrontation in the strategically important region.
The situation remains fluid, with authorities urging residents to stay alert and follow safety instructions as investigations continue.
