'The United States of America has successfully carried out a large scale strike against Venezuela and its leader, President Nicolás Maduro,' Trump wrote on his Truth Social account, adding that further details would be shared later.
Earlier on Saturday, Maduro declared a state of emergency, accusing the United States of 'very serious military aggression' after explosions and aircraft-like sounds were reported across Caracas. Footage published by Venezuelan television station NTN24 showed plumes of smoke rising from the city, with eyewitnesses describing chaotic scenes. 'My heart was pumping and legs were shaking,' one resident told the BBC.
The US has intensified its military operations in recent months, citing efforts to combat alleged drug smuggling linked to Venezuela, including strikes on speedboats and ports. Over the past few weeks, Trump has made repeated references to military actions in Venezuelan territory, with prior reports indicating strikes in Zulia, an oil-rich state, and the seizure of two sanctioned oil tankers.
The Venezuelan government has condemned the US actions, calling them 'extremely serious military aggression' and urging grassroots organisations and militias to mobilise in response. Maduro has consistently accused the Trump administration of attempting to force regime change in Caracas.
Wycliffe Nyamasege
