The Venezuelan capital of Caracas was rocked by a series of explosions, with low-flying aircraft reported overhead, in a dramatic escalation of the nation's long-running political crisis.
Government Confirms Attacks Across Multiple States
The government of Venezuela swiftly confirmed that attacks had been launched not only on Caracas but also on three other states: Miranda, La Guaira and Aragua. The nature and precise origin of these attacks, which included audible explosions and reports of aircraft activity, remain under investigation by authorities. The incident has sent shockwaves through the South American nation, already strained by economic hardship and political division.
Trump's Startling Claim of Capture
In a stunning development, former US President Donald Trump made an explosive claim regarding the situation. He stated that the United States had 'captured' Venezuela’s leader, Nicolás Maduro, and his wife, Cilia Flores, and had flown them out of the country. This assertion, made without immediate verification from current US administration officials or independent sources, adds a volatile new layer to the unfolding events. The Venezuelan government has not publicly commented on Trump's specific claim regarding Maduro's status.
Regional and International Repercussions
The combination of physical attacks on Venezuelan soil and high-stakes geopolitical claims threatens to destabilise the region further. The situation places intense focus on US foreign policy towards Venezuela, a point of significant contention during the Trump administration. Analysts are urgently assessing the credibility of the capture claim and the potential for a major shift in the power dynamics within Venezuela. The immediate priority for many international observers is establishing verifiable facts amidst the confusion and ensuring the safety of civilians in affected areas.
This incident marks one of the most tense moments in recent Venezuelan history, intertwining internal unrest with the spectre of direct external intervention. The world now watches closely for official confirmation, responses from global powers, and the next moves from all parties involved in this deepening crisis.
