The oil-rich South American nation of Venezuela was jolted by a sudden escalation early Saturday, when multiple loud explosions were heard in the capital, Caracas, and thick columns of black smoke were seen rising into the sky. According to Reuters witnesses and images circulating on social media, electricity supply was disrupted in the southern part of the city, close to a major military base. US media reports have claimed that the action was ordered by Donald Trump, targeting military installations inside Venezuela.
The disturbances reportedly began around 2 am local time (0600 GMT). In the initial hours, it remained unclear exactly where the strikes occurred and how extensive they were. Reuters said it could not immediately verify some of the videos shared online. Nevertheless, the visible signs—smoke plumes, aircraft activity and reports of a blackout—pointed to a serious security incident.
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White House silent, Pentagon deflects questions
The US Department of Defense, the Pentagon, referred queries on the developments to the White House, which declined to comment. The silence comes amid an already aggressive pressure campaign by the Trump administration against Venezuela, involving sanctions, a maritime blockade and what Washington has described as targeted military actions.
In recent months, Trump has publicly signalled the possibility of land-based military operations in Venezuela. While he has not spelled out his objectives, US media reports say he has privately pressed President Nicolas Maduro to step down. Earlier this week, Trump remarked that it would be “smart” for Maduro to leave power.
Maduro’s charge: Plot to seize oil resources
The Venezuelan government has accused the Trump administration of seeking regime change to gain access to the country’s vast oil reserves. Maduro has repeatedly alleged violations of Venezuela’s sovereignty and international law by Washington. Saturday’s events have reignited those accusations, sharpening rhetoric on both sides.
Regional reaction: Sharp response from Colombia
The reported strikes triggered immediate reactions across the region. Colombian President Gustavo Petro posted on social media platform X: “At this moment they are bombing Caracas. Alert everyone — Venezuela has been attacked. They are bombing with missiles. The Organization of American States and the United Nations must meet immediately.” Petro did not, however, provide details or cite the source of his claims.
Petro has consistently opposed US pressure tactics against Venezuela, warning that sanctions and military threats risk destabilising the wider region.
From naval blockade to military build-up
Last month, Trump announced a blockade of all sanctioned vessels entering or leaving Venezuelan waters. At the same time, the United States has reinforced its military presence in the Caribbean, deploying an aircraft carrier, warships and advanced fighter jets. The administration maintains that these moves are aimed at curbing drug trafficking and other illicit activities.
Last week, Trump said the US had “hit” an area in Venezuela where boats are allegedly loaded with narcotics, a statement widely seen as confirmation that land operations had begun under the pressure campaign. He did not specify which agency carried out the strikes. Other media outlets have reported that the CIA may have been involved.
International controversy and the road ahead
US actions have been condemned by several countries as extrajudicial killings and violations of international law. Venezuela’s government has consistently denied any involvement in drug trafficking. After Saturday’s explosions, a larger question looms: whether the confrontation will remain a matter of limited coercive pressure or spiral into a broader regional conflict.
With military tensions rising in Latin America and potential ripple effects on global oil markets, attention is now focused on Washington’s next move and how international bodies respond in the days ahead.
About the author – Rehan Ahmad Khan is a law student and legal journalist with a keen interest in cybercrime, digital fraud, and emerging technology laws. He writes on the intersection of law, cybersecurity, and online safety, focusing on developments that impact individuals and institutions in India.