Venezuela-US Tensions LIVE UPDATES: US To Run Venezuela In Interim, Say Trump After Capturing Nicolás Maduro, Shares First Photo
Venezuela-US Tensions LIVE UPDATES: Venezuela was placed on high alert early Saturday after multiple explosions were reported in the capital, Caracas, triggering fears of a major security incident. Residents in several areas said loud blasts were heard, followed by plumes of dark smoke rising into the sky. A power outage was also reported in the southern parts of the city near a key military facility.
Authorities have not yet confirmed the exact cause or targets of the explosions, while visuals circulating on social media remain unverified.
In a swift response, the Venezuelan government accused the United States of “military aggression” and announced a national emergency. President Nicolás Maduro urged political and social organisations to activate nationwide mobilisation plans, calling for unity and vigilance to protect national sovereignty.
Officials, however, stopped short of providing details on casualties, damage, or those responsible for the blasts.
The incident comes amid strained relations between Caracas and Washington. US President Donald Trump has previously made remarks suggesting possible action against the Maduro government, including comments that Maduro stepping aside would be “smart,” though no official military strategy has been outlined.
These statements have kept diplomatic channels tense and added to uncertainty among Venezuelans.
Further heightening concerns, the US Federal Aviation Administration imposed a ban on American commercial flights operating in Venezuelan airspace, citing ongoing military activity. The restriction was announced shortly before reports of the explosions surfaced, raising alarm over aviation safety in the region.
Security forces continue to guard strategic installations across Caracas as citizens and the international community await clarity on whether the incident was isolated or signals a wider escalation.
U.S.-backed opposition leader Maria Corina Machado, who won the Nobel Peace Prize last year, posted on social media that “the hour of freedom has arrived.”
The United Nations Security Council has announced that it will convene an emergency session on Monday to discuss the US operation in Venezuela.
While the list of participants has not yet been finalised, the meeting could be attended by UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres.
The emergency meeting was requested by Colombia, with backing from Russia and China, both permanent members of the Security Council.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu praised the bold move of US President Donald Trump.
Congratulations, President @realDonaldTrump for your bold and historic leadership on behalf of freedom and justice. I salute your decisive resolve and the brilliant action of your brave soldiers.
— Benjamin Netanyahu – בנימין נתניהו (@netanyahu) January 3, 2026
Venezuela Vice President Delcy Rodriguez addressed the nation on state television, asserting that Nicolas Maduro remains Venezuela’s sole president.
New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani said in a social media post that he had been briefed on the capture of Nicolas Maduro and his wife, as well as plans to hold them in federal custody in New York City.
I was briefed this morning on the U.S. military capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and his wife, as well as their planned imprisonment in federal custody here in New York City.
Unilaterally attacking a sovereign nation is an act of war and a violation of federal and…
— Mayor Zohran Kwame Mamdani (@NYCMayor) January 3, 2026