Several explosions were heard on Saturday January 3, 2026 in the Venezuelan capital, Caracas, followed by the passage of a low-flying plane, according to information reported by The Associated Press (AP). Venezuelan authorities accuse the United States of targeting civilian and military installations, an accusation to which Washington did not immediately react.
According to the AP, at least seven explosions were heard in the south of the capital, near a major military base. A thick cloud of smoke rose particularly near La Carlota, a strategic air base located east of Caracas. Power outages were also reported in several surrounding neighborhoods.
In a statement released shortly after the explosions, the Venezuelan government said that coordinated attacks had targeted civilian and military sites in several states of the country. No independent confirmation was immediately available.
A context of growing tensions
These events occur in a context of strong tensions between Caracas and Washington. The United States has for several months accused Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro of being involved in international drug trafficking networks, accusations rejected by Venezuelan authorities.
On Thursday, Nicolás Maduro, however, declared himself open to negotiations with Washington with a view to a cooperation agreement in the fight against drug trafficking, suggesting a possible resumption of dialogue after years of conflictual relations.
Military pressure and sanctions
Since September, the United States has carried out more than twenty air operations in waters near Venezuela, alongside increased economic sanctions and military pressure on Caracas. Washington presents these actions as part of the fight against drug trafficking and regional security.
At this stage, no direct link has been established between these operations and the explosions in Caracas. The Venezuelan authorities announced the opening of an investigation and called on the population to calm down.
