Caracas, January 3, 2026 – Venezuela awoke this morning to reports of aerial attacks targeting both civilian and military zones within the capital. The Venezuelan government has swiftly accused the United States of orchestrating these attacks, alleging a deliberate attempt to destabilize and overthrow the current administration.
Venezuelan Foreign Minister issued a statement declaring a state of emergency and ordering the immediate deployment of Popular Defense Forces across the nation. He directly implicated the United States in the attacks, claiming they were aimed at residential areas and critical infrastructure. The Minister asserted Venezuela’s right to defend its people, territory, and sovereignty, accusing the US of seeking to seize the nation’s vast oil and gas reserves.
The accusations come amidst escalating tensions between Caracas and Washington. The US has long accused President Maduro of heading a large-scale drug trafficking network, a claim vehemently denied by the Venezuelan leader. Maduro, in turn, accuses the US of attempting to oust him to gain control of Venezuela’s oil reserves, the largest in the world.
Prior to today’s events, President Maduro had expressed a willingness to negotiate with the United States, even as the US increased its military presence in the Caribbean. Since September of last year, US forces have reportedly conducted approximately 30 strikes in the Caribbean Sea and the eastern Pacific Ocean, targeting vessels suspected of drug trafficking. These operations have allegedly resulted in numerous casualties.
The situation remains highly volatile, and the international community is closely monitoring developments as they unfold. The potential for further escalation remains a significant concern.
