Venezuela–US Tensions LIVE: National Emergency Declared After Explosions; Reports Claim Trump Ordered Strikes

In a development that could sharply escalate tensions between Venezuela and the United States, the Venezuelan government has blamed the US administration for a series of powerful explosions that rocked the capital Caracas and other regions in the early hours of Saturday. The incidents come amid US President Donald Trump’s intensified crackdown on drug cartels.

While official confirmation of the explosions being US airstrikes was still awaited, a CBS reporter claimed on X that President Trump had ordered strikes on multiple sites inside Venezuela, including military facilities.

What we know so far

• Multiple explosions, along with sounds described as low-flying aircraft, were reported around 2 am local time (0600 GMT) in Caracas and several other areas.

• An AFP journalist in the capital reported hearing loud blasts accompanied by aircraft-like flyover noises.

• Unverified videos circulating on social media purportedly show large explosions, including one claim of strikes at Higuerote Airport, about 87 km east of Caracas.

• According to an official statement, the attacks were reported not only in Caracas but also in the states of Miranda, Aragua and La Guaira.

• Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro declared a national emergency following the incidents and called on social and political forces to “activate mobilization plans.”

The Venezuelan government has squarely held the United States responsible, though Washington has not issued an official statement so far. The situation remains fluid, with regional and international observers closely watching developments for further escalation.