Venezuela Declares National Emergency Amid US Air Strikes
In a dramatic escalation of tensions, Venezuela has declared a national emergency following a series of air strikes that rattled the capital city of Caracas early this morning. The explosions, which witnesses say occurred around 2 a.m. local time, sent plumes of smoke billowing into the sky and resulted in widespread power outages in southern Caracas.
Footage circulating on social media captures the chaotic aftermath, with low-flying jets audible above the city. Reports indicate that at least seven distinct blasts were heard by residents, igniting fears of further conflict. In the wake of these attacks, Venezuelan authorities have explicitly blamed the United States, alleging that the Pentagon is behind the strikes ordered by President Donald Trump.
The U.S. government has asserted that the air strikes are part of an ongoing operation targeting drug smuggling in the region. Officials have stated that these strikes are aimed at disrupting drug-smuggling boats as well as a port in Venezuela reputedly used for illicit trafficking. However, these explanations have done little to quell the anger of Venezuelan officials and citizens alike, who perceive the strikes as an affront to national sovereignty.
Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro condemned the U.S. actions, vowing to defend the nation against what he termed “imperialist aggression.” His government is urging residents to remain vigilant amid fears that further military action may follow.
DW’s Oskar Schlenker provides an in-depth analysis of the growing tensions between Venezuela and the United States, emphasizing the potential ramifications for regional stability.
As the situation develops, the international community watches closely, aware that the ramifications of this military intervention could extend far beyond Venezuela’s borders, affecting diplomatic relations throughout Latin America and beyond.
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Video “Venezuela condemns US after air strikes hit Caracas | DW News” was uploaded on 01/03/2026 to Youtube Channel DW News