Venezuela Explosions: Maduro Accuses US of Attack

Explosions rocked Caracas, Venezuela, early Saturday, with reports indicating blasts in multiple states and a national emergency declared by President Nicolás Maduro. The FAA had earlier warned US commercial flights of “ongoing military activity” in Venezuelan airspace.

Venezuela Accuses US of Attack

Venezuela’s government accuses the United States of carrying out the attacks, stating the objective is to seize the nation’s strategic resources. President Maduro has called on all social and political forces to “activate mobilisation plans.”

US Strikes Reported

A US official told Reuters that the United States is carrying out strikes inside Venezuela, though no further details were provided. Earlier, CBS News reported that President Donald Trump ordered strikes on military facilities within the country.

FAA Warning

The Federal Aviation Administration banned US commercial flights in Venezuelan airspace over “ongoing military activity” shortly after 1am east coast time (5pm AEDT). The warnings are designed to alert pilots to a variety of dangers.

Reports of Explosions and Power Outage

Loud explosions and a column of smoke were reported in Caracas, with a power outage affecting parts of the southern capital near a major military base. Airplanes and loud noises could be heard, sparking concern among residents.

Resident Describes Explosions

Carmen Hidalgo, a 21-year-old office worker, was walking with relatives when the explosions occurred. “The whole ground shook. This is horrible. We heard explosions and planes,” she said. “We felt like the air was hitting us.”

Blasts Felt in Multiple States

Venezuelan officials say blasts were also felt in the states of Miranda, Aragua and La Guaira.