U.S. President Donald Trump has ordered strikes on Venezuela, including its capital Caracas and military sites, U.S. officials told CBS News, marking a major escalation in tensions between Washington and Caracas.
Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro condemned the attacks as an attempt to seize the country’s strategic resources, particularly oil and minerals, and declared a state of national emergency. The decree allows the full implementation of national defense plans, and Maduro urged all social and political forces in the country to activate mobilization plans and condemn what he described as “imperialist aggression.”
Eyewitnesses in Caracas described the explosions as extremely powerful. Journalist Vanessa Silva said the blasts were “stronger than thunder,” shaking her home and echoing across the city, leaving residents terrified. She added that people were frantically messaging friends and family to confirm their safety. Footage showed large plumes of smoke rising above Caracas, and several neighborhoods were reported without power. Unconfirmed reports indicated low-flying aircraft over the city.
The developments come after weeks of increased U.S. pressure on Maduro, who is accused by Washington of drug trafficking, corruption, and misusing oil revenue. The Trump administration has carried out 30 strikes on drug-smuggling boats in the Caribbean and Pacific since September, reportedly killing more than 110 people. Venezuelan officials said these actions aim to force Maduro from power and gain control over the country’s oil reserves.
Maduro recently signaled willingness to negotiate with the U.S. on drug trafficking and oil issues. In a state TV interview, he avoided directly responding to U.S. claims that a CIA-linked strike targeted a docking facility used by Venezuelan drug boats. The U.S. said the dock was a major loading point for illicit shipments.
The strikes have heightened fear among Caracas residents, with multiple military installations, including La Carlota airfield and Fuerte Tiuna base, reportedly affected. Videos circulating online show apparent explosions at both sites. Observers described the strikes as highly coordinated, raising concern for civilians regardless of political allegiance.
Since September, the U.S. has accused Maduro of emptying prisons and mental health institutions to force inmates to migrate to the U.S., while targeting Venezuela’s oil industry to fund alleged drug operations. The Venezuelan government rejects these claims, describing U.S. actions as an effort to destabilize the country.
