Caracas [Venezuela], Jan 3: A series of loud explosions rocked Venezuela’s capital Caracas early Saturday, triggering power outages in several neighbourhoods and sparking panic among residents, CNN reported. The first blast was heard around 1:50 am local time, followed by multiple explosions across different parts of the city.
According to CNN, electricity supply was disrupted in several areas after the blasts, leaving large sections of the capital in darkness. Residents reported hearing loud booms and seeing flashes in the sky, with many taking to social media to share their experiences during the early morning hours.
The cause of the explosions remains unclear, and Venezuelan authorities had not issued any official statement at the time of reporting. There was no immediate information on casualties or damage, and it was not confirmed whether the incidents were linked to military activity, air operations or any external involvement.
Former Colombian President Gustavo Petro called for an urgent meeting of the United Nations Security Council to discuss what he described as US action against Venezuela. “Colombia is a member of the United Nations Security Council which must be convened immediately. Establish the international legality of the aggression against Venezuela,” he posted on X.
The explosions come amid heightened tensions between the United States and Venezuela. US President Donald Trump has repeatedly accused Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro of heading a “narco-terrorist” government and has imposed sanctions on vessels allegedly transporting Venezuelan oil. The US military has also stepped up action against Venezuelan boats, citing alleged involvement in drug trafficking.
Trump has called on Maduro to step down and accused Venezuela of contributing to illegal migration into the US, making sharp remarks against the Maduro government. In response, Maduro has accused Washington of seeking control over Venezuela’s oil resources, recently stating that Trump had “gone mad.”
However, the Venezuelan government on Friday indicated a willingness to engage in dialogue with the US, saying it was open to discussions on cooperation to combat drug trafficking in the region. “If they want to seriously discuss an agreement to combat drug trafficking, we’re ready,” Maduro said. (Agencies)
