The United States carried out a large-scale military strike on Venezuela early Saturday, triggering explosions across the capital, Caracas and prompting President Donald Trump to claim that Venezuelan President Nicol&aacute;s Maduro had been captured and flown out of the country. The dramatic operation was announced by Trump on social media hours after the overnight attack.
Residents in Caracas reported multiple blasts and the sound of low-flying aircraft as parts of the city, including areas near military installations, were plunged into darkness. The Venezuelan government accused the United States of targeting both civilian and military sites, describing the action as an imperialist assault and urging citizens to mobilise in protest.
Trump stated that Maduro and his wife had been taken into custody in a joint operation involving US law enforcement agencies and would face criminal proceedings in the United States. However, Venezuelan authorities said they had no confirmation of the president&rsquo;s whereabouts and demanded proof that he was alive.
Vice President Delcy Rodr&iacute;guez said the government was unable to verify Maduro&rsquo;s location and warned that the situation amounted to a grave violation of Venezuelan sovereignty. Under the country&rsquo;s constitution, she would assume power if the president was officially removed, though no formal transition was announced.
The strike reportedly lasted less than half an hour, with at least seven explosions heard across Caracas. Videos verified by international media showed flashes lighting up the night sky, smoke rising from military facilities, and residents fleeing into the streets. Power outages were reported in several neighbourhoods, though traffic continued moving in parts of the city.
The US Federal Aviation Administration suspended American commercial flights over Venezuelan airspace, citing safety concerns linked to ongoing military activity. The US Embassy also issued an alert urging American citizens in Venezuela to shelter in place.
The operation follows months of escalating pressure by the Trump administration, including drone strikes and maritime attacks targeting alleged drug trafficking operations linked to Venezuela. Maduro has repeatedly accused Washington of attempting to remove him from power to gain access to the country&rsquo;s vast oil and mineral resources.
International reactions were swift and divided. Cuba and Iran condemned the US action, calling for a global response, while Argentina&rsquo;s President Javier Milei praised Trump&rsquo;s announcement. In the United States, several lawmakers questioned the constitutional basis of the strike, noting that Congress had not authorised the use of military force.
As of now, neither the Pentagon nor US Southern Command has issued a detailed briefing, and the situation in Venezuela remains volatile, with uncertainty over leadership, security, and the possibility of further military action.
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Explosions rock Caracas as Trump claims Maduro arrested in US-led operation

US Launches Strike on Venezuela, Maduro Captured

Explosions rock Caracas as Trump claims Maduro arrested in US-led operation

January 3, 2026 | 17:47 IST