Explosions Rock Venezuelan Capital in Early Hours
Residents of Venezuela's capital, Caracas, were jolted awake in the early hours of Saturday morning by the sound of at least seven loud explosions and the roar of low-flying aircraft. The incident occurred around 2 a.m. local time on 03 January 2026, creating alarm across several neighbourhoods.
Eyewitnesses reported that people rushed into the streets from their homes, with some figures visible in the distance from various points across the city. The Venezuelan government has not yet issued an official statement or responded to requests for comment regarding the source or cause of the disturbances.
Background of Rising Tensions
This unsettling event unfolds against a backdrop of significantly strained relations between Venezuela and the United States. In recent days, the U.S. military has been targeting alleged drug-smuggling boats in the region, part of a broader pressure campaign.
Just one day prior to the explosions, on Friday, the Venezuelan government stated it was open to negotiating an agreement with the United States to combat drug trafficking. However, President Nicolás Maduro simultaneously accused the U.S. of seeking to force a change in his government and gain control of the country's vast oil reserves.
Months of Military Pressure
President Maduro linked the current situation to a monthslong pressure campaign that began with a substantial U.S. military deployment to the Caribbean Sea in August. This persistent military presence has been a central point of contention, with Caracas viewing it as a direct threat to its sovereignty and natural resources.
The combination of military activity, diplomatic friction, and now unexplained explosions in the capital creates a volatile and uncertain atmosphere. The lack of immediate official clarification from Venezuelan authorities is likely to fuel further speculation and concern among the populace and international observers alike.
