Multiple explosions were reported inCaracasin the early hours of Saturday, sending residents rushing into the streets as plumes of smoke rose over the southern parts of the city. According to international media reports, at leastseven explosionswere heard around 2 am local time, accompanied bylow-flying aircraftand temporary power outages in areas close to major military facilities.

Explosions were reported nearFort Tiuna, one of Venezuela’s main military forts, as well as around theLa Carlota military base. Additional blasts were also heard near Higuerote Airport. Videos circulating on social media showed flashes in the sky and residents gathering outdoors as loud detonations echoed across neighbourhoods.

Witnesses described scenes of fear and confusion. “The whole ground shook… we heard explosions and planes in the distance,” a local resident told reporters, describing the intensity of the blasts.

The incidents come amid escalating tensions involving the United States and Venezuela. US PresidentDonald Trumphas repeatedly warned of possible ground operations aimed at pressuring Venezuelan PresidentNicolas Maduro, alongside stepped-up sanctions, naval actions and anti-narcotics operations in the region.

Neither the Pentagon nor the Venezuelan government issued immediate official statements following the explosions. However, US media reported that American officials were aware of the overnight bombardments. In recent months, Washington has intensified actions against alleged drug trafficking networks linked to Venezuela, including drone strikes on suspected cartel infrastructure and seizures of sanctioned oil tankers.

As investigations continue, the cause and responsibility for the explosions remain unclear, raising concerns over further escalation in an already volatile regional situation.