Venezuela's capital was thrown into chaos on Monday night as heavy gunfire erupted near the presidential palace, following the dramatic removal of President Nicolás Maduro from power.
Night of Violence in Caracas
Videos shared widely on social media captured the sound of sustained automatic weapons fire echoing across Caracas. Local journalist Richard Humberto Blanco Bencomo posted footage appearing to show armed individuals moving through the area surrounding the Miraflores Palace and opening fire.
In a caption translated from Spanish, Blanco wrote: “A resident of Miraflores in Caracas sends me this video. Shooting in the vicinity. I don’t know the real reason.”
Residents reported hearing what they described as “anti-aircraft” blasts near the palace. Witnesses said the night sky was lit by what appeared to be drones and anti-aircraft fire beginning around 8:15pm local time.
Maduro's Capture and International Fallout
The violence followed reports that Maduro and his wife were seized from their home and flown to the United States to face drug trafficking charges, including narco-terrorism. They are now set to appear in a New York court.
In response, US President Donald Trump stated on Monday that the United States would assist in rebuilding Venezuela's deteriorated infrastructure. He suggested it could take up to 18 months before new elections could be held, citing a need for stabilisation first.
“We have to fix the country first. You can’t have an election,” Mr Trump said. “There’s no way the people could even vote. It’s going to take a period of time. We have to nurse the country back to health.”
Global Powers React
The audacious operation has sent shockwaves through international diplomacy. China, a key ally of Maduro's government, issued a stark four-word demand to President Trump: “Release them at once.” Beijing officials expressed serious concern over the transfer.
The move is seen as a significant escalation by the US, signalling a willingness to defy international norms against nations it deems a threat. Both Beijing and Moscow, who have formed an axis against US dominance, have voiced their fury over Maduro's capture and extradition.
The situation leaves Venezuela in a state of profound uncertainty, with its leader facing trial abroad and its streets gripped by unrest, marking a dangerous new chapter for the troubled South American nation.
