Multiple Explosions Reported in Venezuela's Capital Amid Rising US Tensions
In a series of alarming developments, multiple explosions were reported in the early hours of Saturday in the Venezuelan capital, Caracas. The blasts occurred amid escalating tensions between the United States and Venezuela, with reports of low-flying military aircraft and smoke rising from military installations in the city.
Background and Context
Tension has been rising between the U.S. government and the Venezuelan government for weeks, with a recent escalation following U.S. President Donald Trump's deployment of a navy task force to the Caribbean and hints at potential ground strikes against Venezuela. Reports suggest that the explosions coincided with the Federal Aviation Administration issuing a Notice to Air Missions prohibiting all U.S. aircraft from operating within Venezuelan airspace.
Key Developments and Details
According to various international news outlets, at least seven strong explosions were heard around 2 a.m. local time, causing residents in various neighborhoods to rush into the streets. Eyewitnesses reported seeing smoke rise from military installations and hearing low-flying military aircraft, which, according to some sources, included jets, drones, and possibly Apache attack helicopters and a Chinook troop carrier.
Reports from ANSA and Deutsche Welle suggested that there were more blasts, with ANSA citing up to forty explosions in the city. Meanwhile, power outages were reported in several parts of the city, including one military installation.
Reactions and Implications
The explosions and the presence of low-flying aircraft have spurred widespread panic and confusion, with Venezuela's government, the Pentagon, and the White House not immediately responding to requests for comment.
Nicolas Maduro, Venezuela's president, declared a state of emergency, accusing the United States of a very serious military aggression
. Maduro called for the 'mobilization' of the population, vowing to 'push them back' according to ANSA.
Conclusion and Current Status
The situation remains tense as the international community awaits responses from the governments involved. It is still unclear what specifically provoked the explosions, with some suggesting a potential U.S. strike following President Trump's recent threats, while others await further details.
As this is a developing story, the full extent of the damage, potential casualties, and official responses from both the U.S. and Venezuelan governments remain unclear. However, these events mark a significant escalation in the already fraught relations between the two nations, with potential implications for regional stability and international relations.