Trump orders military strikes against Venezuela’s Maduro regime

In Short:
– Multiple explosions rocked Caracas after Trump ordered military strikes on Venezuelan military facilities.
– U.S. military presence has increased significantly in the Caribbean, raising tensions further.

Multiple explosions occurred in Caracas, Venezuela, early Saturday after President Trump ordered military strikes on Venezuelan military facilities, escalating pressure on the Maduro regime. Witnesses reported at least seven explosions around 2 a.m. local time, with low-flying aircraft and power outages in several neighborhoods.The strikes targeted major military sites, including Fuerte Tiuna and La Carlota Air Base, along with El Libertador Air Force Base in Maracay.

These developments follow a significant U.S. military buildup in the Caribbean, with around 15,000 troops and 11 naval vessels present, including the USS Gerald R. Ford. Since September, the U.S. has conducted over 30 strikes on alleged drug-smuggling boats, killing more than 110 people and seizing several oil tankers.

Military Escalation

Earlier, Trump announced that the U.S. had targeted a Venezuelan dock reportedly linked to drug trafficking. Colombia’s President Gustavo Petro called for a UN emergency meeting, although he did not specify the attacker. The Venezuelan government has not officially responded, though Maduro expressed willingness for dialogue on drug issues.

The Trump administration claims its operations target narco-terrorist organizations, while critics argue about the legality of the actions. Human Rights Watch termed the maritime strikes as “unlawful extrajudicial killings”. The U.S. also banned all American aircraft from Venezuelan airspace, effectively designating it a military operations zone.

Trump has not confirmed intentions to remove Maduro, but previously suggested it would be prudent for him to step down.