The US operation in Venezuela intensified after strikes hit Caracas, as Venezuelan officials warned of civilian casualties and demanded proof President Nicolás Maduro is alive amid a national emergency.
The US operation in Venezuela has entered a critical phase as senior Venezuelan officials issued urgent statements following confirmed American strikes and President Donald Trump’s claim that Nicolás Maduro was arrested.
Venezuela’s Defense Minister said the country would resist any presence of foreign forces, accusing the United States of targeting civilian areas during the latest attacks. He stated that authorities are collecting information on those killed or injured as a result of the strikes.
In a televised phone call on state media, Venezuela’s Vice President said the government does not know President Maduro’s current whereabouts. She demanded immediate proof that Maduro and his wife are alive following Trump’s claim that both were detained and transferred outside the country.
Also Read: US confirms strikes in Venezuela after explosions in Caracas
Earlier, President Donald Trump said US forces conducted a large-scale US operation in Venezuela, claiming the mission was carried out jointly with US law enforcement agencies. He alleged that President Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, were arrested during coordinated actions in Caracas.
The announcement followed a night of unrest in the Venezuelan capital, where at least seven explosions were reported near a major military base. Witnesses described low-flying aircraft, thick black smoke, and widespread panic as residents fled into the streets.
Foreign media reported power outages in southern Caracas, particularly around military installations, deepening public anxiety. Following the strikes, Washington suspended commercial US flights in Venezuelan airspace, citing security risks.
Also Read: Trump claims US operation arrested Venezuela’s President Maduro
President Maduro’s government declared a nationwide state of emergency, describing the US operation in Venezuela as a “grave military aggression.” Officials urged political and social unity, while security forces tightened control and armored vehicles were seen patrolling key areas.
Regional reactions intensified after Colombian President Gustavo Petro called for an emergency meeting of the Organisation of American States and the United Nations, warning that Caracas was under attack.
The United States has recently increased its military presence in the Caribbean, deploying warships, an aircraft carrier, and advanced fighter jets. Trump has accused Maduro of leading a drug trafficking network, claims Venezuela strongly denies, arguing Washington seeks regime change to access the country’s vast oil reserves.
Analysts say the US operation in Venezuela appears to combine military strikes with law enforcement objectives, raising serious legal and diplomatic questions. Officials have not yet confirmed casualty figures, and the situation in Caracas remains volatile as international tensions continue to rise.
