Critical Developments: Multiple Explosions Rock Caracas as Venezuela Enters Uncertain Moment

Updated January 3, 2026 | World News

Caracas, Venezuela, was shaken by a series of powerful explosions in the early hours of Saturday, January 3, 2026, triggering widespread fear, evacuations near key government buildings, and urgent international reactions. Residents across the capital and surrounding regions reported loud blasts, low-flying aircraft, power outages, and rising smoke, marking one of the most dramatic moments in Venezuela’s recent history.

The explosions occurred amid escalating geopolitical tension, with U.S. President Donald Trump announcing that American forces carried out a large-scale strike against Venezuela and that President Nicolás Maduro had been captured and flown out of the country. Venezuelan officials, however, say they are unaware of Maduro’s whereabouts, further deepening uncertainty inside the country.

Explosions Heard Across Caracas and Nearby Regions

According to eyewitness accounts and reporting teams on the ground, the first explosion was recorded at approximately 1:50 a.m. local time. Multiple blasts followed across Caracas and neighboring states, including Miranda, Aragua, La Guaira, and coastal areas such as Higuerote.

Residents described scenes of chaos as buildings shook and smoke filled the night sky. In several districts, electricity was cut off, forcing people into darkness while the sound of aircraft overhead intensified fears of a coordinated military operation.

One resident from Higuerote told reporters that the sky “turned red,” with explosions appearing controlled but devastating to nearby infrastructure, including an airport facility.

Smoke and Fires at Key Infrastructure Sites

Footage verified by international media showed large fires and explosions at multiple Venezuelan airports, including La Carlota airport in Caracas and an airport near Higuerote. Videos circulating on social media depicted balls of fire arcing through the air, suggesting damage to air defense systems.

Additional footage confirmed explosions at La Guaira port, located just miles from central Caracas, and heavy activity around Fort Tiuna, Venezuela’s largest military installation. Vehicles and civilians were seen fleeing the area as fires burned nearby.

Trump Announces U.S. Strike and Maduro’s Removal

In a statement posted early Saturday, U.S. President Donald Trump claimed the United States had conducted a “large scale strike against Venezuela” and that President Nicolás Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, had been captured and removed from the country.

Trump described the operation as “brilliant,” crediting extensive planning and U.S. forces. He announced that further details would be provided during a scheduled news conference at Mar-a-Lago later in the day.

Notably, Trump declined to confirm whether congressional authorization had been sought prior to the strike, an omission that has already sparked political debate in Washington.

Venezuelan Government Responds: State of Emergency Declared

Venezuela’s Vice President Delcy Rodríguez stated that the government does not know the whereabouts of President Maduro or the First Lady. She demanded immediate proof of life from U.S. authorities and accused the attack of causing civilian and military casualties.

Meanwhile, Defense Minister Vladimir Padrino López confirmed that urban areas were struck by missiles and rockets launched from combat helicopters. He called the action a “foreign invasion” and vowed resistance, saying Venezuela would defend its sovereignty “at all costs.”

President Maduro, before his disappearance, reportedly signed a state of emergency, activating national defense plans and ordering military and civilian mobilization.

International Reactions and Rising Global Concern

The developments have drawn swift condemnation from several U.S. adversaries and regional governments.

• Iran condemned the attack, calling it a violation of Venezuela’s sovereignty and the UN Charter.
• Cuba labeled the strike a “criminal attack” and urged the international community to respond.
• Colombia expressed deep concern, warning against unilateral military action that could endanger civilians.

Within the United States, Senator Brian Schatz warned that Venezuela does not represent a vital national interest, cautioning against another prolonged foreign conflict.

Airspace Closed as Safety Risks Escalate

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) issued emergency restrictions, barring U.S. aircraft from operating within Venezuelan airspace due to “safety-of-flight risks.” Multiple flight information regions were affected, underscoring the seriousness of ongoing military activity.

The U.S. military has reportedly increased its presence in the Caribbean over recent months, including warships, Marines, fighter jets, and drones, as part of broader regional security operations.

What Happens Next?

As of now, many questions remain unanswered:

• Where is President Nicolás Maduro?
• How extensive are the civilian and military casualties?
• Will the conflict escalate further or move toward diplomatic intervention?

With communications disrupted, official statements limited, and global powers reacting cautiously, Venezuela stands at a pivotal crossroads. The coming hours and days are expected to shape not only the country’s political future but also regional stability across Latin America.

This is a developing story, and updates are expected as governments, international organizations, and independent observers provide additional verified information.