Explosions Rock Caracas as Venezuela Accuses US of “Military Aggression

CARACAS — Early on January 3, 2026, a series of powerful explosions and sightings of low-flying aircraft shook Venezuela’s capital, Caracas, and nearby states including Miranda, Aragua, and La Guaira, sowing alarm across the city and causing localized power outages. Residents reported hearing at least seven blasts around 2 a.m., accompanied by the roar of aircraft overhead and visible plumes of smoke from military sites. 

In response, Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro condemned the events as “military aggression” by the United States, accusing Washington of launching attacks on civilian and military installations. Caracas has described the incidents as an unprovoked escalation by the US aimed at undermining Venezuela’s sovereignty and its control over strategic resources. 

Maduro announced a national emergency, mobilizing defense forces and calling for widespread vigilance. The government has urged both Venezuelan citizens and international partners to reject what it calls foreign interference. While details remain fluid and the situation is developing, officials in Caracas have strongly framed the incident as a blatant assault on the nation’s security. 

The White House and Pentagon have not publicly confirmed any direct involvement in the explosions, instead directing inquiries to higher executive offices. Prior to these events, tensions between the two countries had been rising amid American military operations in the Caribbean targeting alleged drug-smuggling vessels linked to Venezuelan networks — a campaign that has already generated diplomatic friction and accusations of overreach from Caracas. 

The US Federal Aviation Administration also temporarily restricted commercial flights over Venezuelan airspace due to ongoing military activity. 

Regional leaders and global organizations are monitoring the crisis closely. Colombia’s president reportedly called for an emergency meeting of the UN Security Council, underlining international alarm. As investigations continue, independent verification of the causes and actors behind the explosions remains limited, leaving analysts and world capitals on edge about the implications for regional stability.