Tensions between Venezuela and the US escalated sharply after explosions rocked Caracas in the early hours of Saturday (Jan 3). Within hours, President Nicolas Maduro declared a national emergency, accusing the US of launching a military attack aimed at seizing the country’s natural resources.
The announcement marks one of the most serious confrontations between the two nations in recent years and raises fears of wider regional instability.
Caracas Blasts Trigger Emergency Measures
Loud explosions jolted residents of Venezuela’s capital overnight, sending people rushing into the streets. Several areas near military installations reported power outages, adding to public fear and confusion.
Shortly after the blasts, the Venezuelan government activated emergency protocols. President Nicolás Maduro declared a nationwide state of emergency, granting authorities expanded powers to respond to what officials described as an external threat. Security forces were placed on high alert across major cities, while military bases increased patrols.
Caracas Blasts: Venezuela Accuses US of Military Aggression
In a strongly worded statement, the Venezuelan government directly blamed the United States for the explosions. “Venezuela rejected ‘military aggression’ by the United States,” the government said, following the overnight blasts.
It further claimed that “The goal of the US attack is to take possession of Venezuelan oil and minerals.” The accusation marks a sharp escalation in rhetoric, transforming what began as unexplained explosions into a full-scale diplomatic crisis.
Why Venezuela Says the US is Targeting It?
Venezuela holds some of the world’s largest oil reserves, along with significant mineral resources. For years, the Maduro government has accused Washington of using sanctions, covert operations, and military pressure to weaken its control.
Officials argue that recent US military actions in the Caribbean and Pacific, officially described as counter-narcotics operations, have increasingly crossed into Venezuelan territory. Saturday’s events, according to Caracas, confirm long-held fears of direct intervention.
Caracas Blasts: Venezuelan Declares National Emergency
By declaring a national emergency, Maduro’s government gains broader authority over security, communications, and movement. Such measures allow faster military coordination and tighter control over critical infrastructure.
Authorities say the move is necessary to protect sovereignty and prevent further attacks. Critics, however, warn that emergency powers could also restrict civil liberties during an already tense period marked by economic hardship and political unrest.
Caracas Blasts: US Has Not Confirmed Any Strike
As of now, the US has not publicly confirmed any military action linked to the Caracas explosions. US officials have previously stated that American operations target alleged drug-smuggling networks, not Venezuelan infrastructure. The lack of confirmation has created uncertainty, with competing narratives emerging from both sides.
Why the Caracas Blasts Could Escalate Regional Tensions?
The confrontation carries broader implications for the region. Any direct military clash could disrupt energy markets, increase refugee flows, and draw neighbouring countries into the conflict.
Latin America has largely opposed foreign military interventions, and Venezuela’s claims may trigger urgent diplomatic efforts to prevent escalation. For now, Caracas remains on edge as citizens await clarity on what caused the blasts—and whether more violence lies ahead.
