Venezuelans woke to explosions and thick smoke after US forces captured President Nicolás Maduro on Saturday. Streets in Caracas were largely empty. Residents scrambled to understand who now controls the oil-rich nation.
Security forces patrolled near the Miraflores presidential palace and other key areas. Smoke rose from La Guaira port and Generalissimo Francisco de Miranda Air Base. Most people stayed home, checking phones for updates or buying groceries in case the unrest continues.
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Some opposition supporters expressed relief and excitement. Jairo Chacin, a mechanic in Maracaibo, said he felt “a mix of fear and joy” while waiting in line for supplies. Others reported seeing flare-like lights and hearing planes at different altitudes overnight.
Interior Minister Diosdado Cabello appeared on state TV wearing a helmet and flak jacket. He called the US forces a “terrorist enemy” and urged citizens not to cooperate. The opposition has not released an official statement yet.
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The attack began around 2 a.m., lasting roughly 90 minutes with loud blasts and black smoke across Caracas. Flight trackers showed Venezuelan airspace was completely empty, leaving residents anxious about what comes next.