US launches series of strikes on Caracas: what is known so far

The United States has launched a series of strikes on Venezuela’s capital, Caracas, with explosions reported across the city. Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro has declared a state of war in response.

According to local media and residents, multiple explosions were heard in Caracas early this morning. Reports indicate that the southern part of the city, particularly areas near a major military base, has been left without electricity. At least seven explosions were heard, according to eyewitness accounts.

Local media outlets report that US strikes targeted the Venezuelan parliament building and the residence of the country’s defence minister. Other reported targets include Caracas’ main military base Fort Tiuna, the principal air base La Carlota and the El Volcán signal antenna.

Strikes were also reported in Vargas state at the La Guaira naval base, which hosts the naval academy. Additional explosions were allegedly recorded at the Port of Caracas and on a Caribbean island where key military infrastructure is concentrated.

Venezuelan authorities have described the incident as a military aggression by the United States. The country’s foreign minister said President Maduro had declared a “state of emergency,” ordered the deployment of a comprehensive defence command and initiated the implementation of the national defence plan.

The foreign minister added that Venezuela plans to appeal to the UN Security Council and the UN Secretary-General and has reserved its right to self-defence under international law. Media reports say President Maduro’s current whereabouts are unknown.

The White House has not yet issued an official statement on the reported strikes. However, US media previously reported that President Donald Trump had authorised strikes inside Venezuelan territory. According to The Wall Street Journal, the White House is expected to make an official statement on Venezuela after US aircraft leave Venezuelan airspace, suggesting the operation may be a limited airstrike rather than a full-scale ground operation.