The United States has carried out what former President Donald Trump described as a “large-scale strike” on Venezuela, claiming that President Nicolás Maduro has been captured and taken out of the country. The announcement followed a series of powerful explosions in the capital, Caracas, where eyewitnesses told the BBC that buildings were shaking and thick plumes of smoke were seen rising over the city. Residents described scenes of fear and confusion as blasts were heard across several areas. “My heart was pumping and my legs were shaking,” one eyewitness in Caracas told the BBC, while video

The United States has carried out what former President Donald Trump described as a “large-scale strike” on Venezuela, claiming that President Nicolás Maduro has been captured and taken out of the country. The announcement followed a series of powerful explosions in the capital, Caracas, where eyewitnesses told the BBC that buildings were shaking and thick plumes of smoke were seen rising over the city. Residents described scenes of fear and confusion as blasts were heard across several areas. “My heart was pumping and my legs were shaking,” one eyewitness in Caracas told the BBC, while video footage circulating online appeared to show explosions near key infrastructure, including areas close to the airport. The strike comes after weeks of heightened tension between Washington and Caracas, during which Trump ramped up pressure on Maduro, accusing his government of undermining democracy and regional stability. While there has been no independent confirmation from Venezuelan authorities regarding Maduro’s capture, the claim has dramatically escalated the political crisis in the country. Attention is now focused on who could take power if Maduro’s removal is confirmed. Analysts point to three key figures within the ruling Chavista movement: Vice President Delcy Rodríguez, Interior Minister Diosdado Cabello, and Defense Minister Vladimir Padrino. Both Cabello and Padrino are seen as highly influential within the military, whose loyalty is expected to play a decisive role in determining the next leadership. Rodríguez, meanwhile, holds significant civilian and economic influence but has less direct control over the armed forces. Another major uncertainty is the response of the opposition, led by María Corina Machado, which claims victory in the disputed July 2024 elections. Opposition leaders have made it clear that they are demanding genuine political change and may not consider Maduro’s removal alone as sufficient. As the situation continues to unfold, Venezuela faces a critical moment that could reshape its political future, with regional and global implications closely watched by the international community. Sources: BBC News

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