Breaking: Explosions Rock Caracas Amid Reports of U.S. Military Action

Multiple explosions were reported across Caracas and other parts of Venezuela early on Saturday, January 3, 2026, with videos circulating online showing blasts, smoke, and aircraft activity over the capital. Venezuelan authorities say both civilian and military infrastructure were hit during the overnight episode.

The Venezuelan government has condemned what it describes as a grave military aggression by the United States, rejecting foreign strikes as a violation of international law and calling for support from international bodies.

U.S. President Donald Trump announced that U.S. forces carried out large-scale strikes against Venezuela and claimed Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and his wife were captured and removed from the country. This announcement was made on U.S. social media but has not been independently verified by Venezuelan officials at the time of reporting.

According to reports, the operation targeted military bases and installations — including key sites around Caracas — sparking explosions and power outages in parts of the capital.

• Venezuela’s government has declared a state of emergency in response to the explosions and action it calls a foreign attack, urging citizens and allies to mobilise.

• International reactions are emerging, with some neighbouring countries and global organisations reportedly discussing the situation. (Statements and official positions are still unfolding.)

• Independent confirmation of Maduro’s reported capture and removal has not yet been provided by Venezuelan authorities.

• Exact casualty figures, the full scale of destruction, and the legality of the U.S. action under international law remain unclear.

• Explosions and aircraft activity were widely reported across Caracas early on January 3.

• Venezuela accuses the U.S. of military aggression and has declared an emergency.

• U.S. officials claim a military operation with arrests of high-level Venezuelan leaders.

• The situation is ongoing and highly fluid.