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Venezuelan president reportedly captured as US launches strikes under Trump
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Explosions and loud noises were reported by terrified locals in Venezuela’s capital city of Caracas
- The United States carried out a large-scale military strike on Venezuela in the early hours of Saturday, triggering multiple explosions and low-flying aircraft over the capital, Caracas.
- US President Donald Trump said Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, had been captured and flown out of the country following the operation.
- Trump announced the development on social media shortly after 4.30am Florida time and said the strike was carried out successfully in conjunction with US law enforcement.
- Venezuela’s government accused the US of attacking civilian and military targets and described the action as an imperialist attack.
- Vice President Delcy Rodriguez said the government does not know Maduro’s or his wife’s whereabouts and demanded proof of life.
- At least seven explosions were reported across Caracas, with residents fleeing into the streets as blasts lit up the night sky.
- It was not immediately clear whether there were any casualties or whether further US military action is planned.
- The US State Department urged American citizens in Venezuela to shelter in place, while the FAA banned US flights from Venezuelan airspace.
- Colombia moved security forces to its border amid fears of a potential influx of refugees, while Russia and Iran condemned the US strike.
- US officials have not confirmed whether Congress was formally notified or authorised the operation, raising questions about the legal basis for the action.
READ THE FULL STORY : Venezuela attack UPDATES: Trump says US has captured president and wife in shock update
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