Explosions, loud aircraft noises and a visible column of smoke were reported in parts of Venezuela’s capital early Saturday, according to Reuters witnesses, as power outages affected southern areas of the city near a major military base.
The cause and precise locations of the disturbances were not immediately clear. Videos circulating on social media appeared to show multiple explosions across Caracas, though Reuters said it could not independently verify the footage.
There was no immediate official comment from Venezuelan authorities on the incident.
The developments come amid heightened tensions between Washington and Caracas. U.S. President Donald Trump has repeatedly promised land operations in Venezuela, though he has not publicly detailed specific objectives. Reuters has previously reported that Trump has privately pressured President Nicolás Maduro to leave the country, and on Monday Trump said it would be “smart” for Maduro to step down.
The U.S. Department of Defense did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
The United States has in recent weeks carried out a significant military buildup in the region, including the deployment of an aircraft carrier, warships and advanced fighter jets in the Caribbean.
This is a developing story and will be updated as more information becomes available.
