Visuals of the Aftermath in Venezuela Following Strikes

The scene at La Guaira port was chaotic as pedestrians moved past the ruins of shipping containers following the blasts on Saturday, January 3, 2026.

A Bold Move by the United States

In a daring nighttime mission, U.S. forces successfully apprehended Nicolás Maduro, the leader of Venezuela, in an operation that shook Caracas, the heart of the nation.

This escalation followed a prolonged period of military readiness in the area and constant warnings from President Trump aimed at Maduro's regime.

City in Turmoil

Explosions at Fuerte Tiuna, a key military installation in Venezuela, lit up the night sky over Caracas on January 3, 2026.

As alarms rang out, people in Caracas scrambled for cover when aircraft roared low over the city.

Men watched plumes of smoke rise at La Guaira port, indicating the location of more explosions.

Impact on Infrastructure

Several concrete barricades sealed off the road leading from Simón Bolívar International Airport to Caracas, evidencing heightened security.

Reactions from Citizens

People residing in Fuerte Tiuna, Venezuela's largest military hub, were seen evacuating in the aftermath of Maduro's capture.

Meanwhile, Venezuelans in Chile rejoiced in Santiago following the news of the U.S. military operation described as a 'large-scale strike.'

Back in Caracas, residents queued up outside supermarkets amid the unfolding chaos on that January morning.

Military Presence and Public Sentiment

A member of the National Guard maintained a vigilant watch at the entrance of Fuerte Tiuna amid escalating tensions.

Emotions ran high as Nicolás Maduro's supporters gathered in central Caracas, where a woman was overwhelmed with tears during a demonstration of loyalty to the captured leader.

Securing the Area

Armed civilian groups loyal to the government roamed La Guaira amid news of Maduro's forced departure from Venezuela.

Vigilant, a National Guard member remained stationed at an entrance to the Fuerte Tiuna complex, representing a steady military presence in the area.