Explosions reported in Venezuelan capital Caracas amid heightened US-Venezuela tensions

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Explosions reported in Venezuelan capital Caracas amid tensions with US

Reports are emerging of explosions and loud noises in Caracas, the capital city of Venezuela, according to multiple sources. An Al Jazeera correspondent on the ground has confirmed that plumes of smoke are rising in the area.

The southern part of the city, near a major military base, is reportedly without electricity. Witnesses have also reported hearing loud noises in the early hours of Saturday morning.

The Associated Press news agency has reported at least seven explosions and low-flying aircraft were heard in Caracas. The US military struck five alleged drug-smuggling boats in the Caribbean and eastern Pacific on New Year’s Eve, killing at least five people.

Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro was interviewed recently, during which he stated that his country is open to negotiating a deal with the US to combat drug trafficking. However, he also reiterated his allegations that the US is trying to topple his government and gain access to Venezuela’s vast oil reserves.

Maduro has been critical of the Trump administration’s approach, stating that it seeks to impose itself on Venezuela through “threats, intimidation and force”. The US has imposed sanctions and military pressure on Venezuela in recent months. Maduro’s comments come as tensions between the two countries continue to escalate.

Source: Al Jazeera