Multiple Explosions Reported In Venezuela Amid Tensions With US

On Saturday, January 3, 2026, a series of powerful explosions rocked Venezuela’s capital, Caracas, causing widespread panic and a significant power outage. The blasts, occurring around 2:00 a.m. local time, have significantly escalated the already high tensions between the United States and the Nicolás Maduro administration.

Explosions and Immediate Impact

• Multiple Blasts: At least seven large explosions were reported across the capital. Local residents described deafening booms that rattled windows and shook buildings.
• Low-Flying Aircraft: Witnesses and social media videos captured the sound and sight of aircraft flying at low altitudes over the city shortly before and during the detonations.
• Power Grid Failure: Following the blasts, the southern parts of Caracas, particularly areas near strategic military installations, were plunged into darkness due to a massive power outage.

Strategic Targets and Military Presence

Reports indicate that the explosions were concentrated near major military hubs:

• Fort Tiuna & La Carlota: Significant activity and smoke were observed near Fort Tiuna, the city’s main military complex, and La Carlota Air Base.
• Maracay Airbase: Some reports suggest strikes also targeted the El Libertador airbase in Maracay, the headquarters of the Venezuelan Air Force.
• FAA Response: In an immediate response, the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) issued a NOTAM (Notice to Airmen) prohibiting all U.S. aircraft from operating within Venezuelan airspace at any altitude.

The Geopolitical Context: US-Venezuela Tensions

The incident follows months of mounting pressure from the Trump administration:

1. Military Aggression Claims: The Venezuelan government has accused the U.S. of “military aggression” against civilian and military infrastructure.
2. Operation Southern Spear: This U.S. operation, aimed at dismantling narco-trafficking networks, had already involved dozens of strikes on vessels in the Caribbean.
3. Regime Change Pressure: President Donald Trump has consistently pressured President Maduro to step down, labeling his government a “narco-terrorist” regime.
4. Negotiation Offers: Just hours before the blasts, Maduro had signaled an openness to negotiate an agreement with the U.S. to combat drug trafficking, an offer that appears to have been overshadowed by these developments.