Explosive Incidents Reported in Caracas

In the early hours of Saturday, the Venezuelan capital, Caracas, was rocked by a series of explosions around 2 a.m. local time, as confirmed by eyewitness accounts. Visual evidence from photos and videos captured columns of smoke and a striking fireball illuminating the night sky.

Context of Rising Tensions

These developments occur in a backdrop of heightened strain between Venezuela and the United States. There has been an increased presence of U.S. military forces in the Caribbean, coinciding with operations aimed at intercepting suspected drug-smuggling vessels.

Aviation Restrictions

The Federal Aviation Administration has reacted by barring U.S. civil aircraft from navigating Venezuelan airspace. This precautionary measure stems from 'safety-of-flight risks' linked to current military maneuvers, as articulated by FAA authorities.

Official Responses

No comments have yet been issued by United States officials regarding any military actions. However, the government of Venezuela quickly responded, denouncing what it described as 'serious military aggression' by the United States in the regions of Caracas, Miranda, Aragua, and La Guaira.

Venezuelan Government Actions

President Nicolas Maduro has called for the execution of national defense strategies and declared a 'state of External Disturbance' nationwide. This maneuver underlines the country's readiness to address the perceived external threats.