U.S. Launches Airstrikes on Venezuela
The United States carried out airstrikes on multiple targets inside Venezuela early Saturday (January 3, 2026), marking a significant escalation in President Donald Trump’s campaign against President Nicolás Maduro’s government.
Strikes Ordered by Trump: U.S. officials confirmed to CBS News that President Trump authorized the operation, targeting military facilities and sites linked to alleged drug trafficking infrastructure in Caracas and the states of Miranda, Aragua, and La Guaira.
Immediate Impact: Explosions were reported across Caracas and surrounding areas around 1:00 a.m. local time. Venezuelan authorities described the strikes as a “very serious military aggression” and “criminal attack,” vowing to defend the nation and calling for an emergency UN Security Council meeting.
Military Buildup: The strikes follow months of heightened U.S. naval presence in the Caribbean, including deployment of the USS Gerald R. Ford aircraft carrier and other warships. In recent weeks, the U.S. seized two oil tankers off Venezuela’s coast and conducted multiple lethal strikes on boats allegedly transporting drugs.
Accusations Against Maduro: The Trump administration has repeatedly accused Maduro of drug trafficking, collaborating with terrorist-designated gangs, and rigging the 2024 election (which the U.S. rejected, recognizing opposition candidate Edmundo González as the winner). Maduro denies the allegations.
Maduro’s Response: Earlier this week, Maduro said he was open to talks with the U.S. on drug trafficking, oil, and migration “wherever they want to whenever they want.”
Aviation Restrictions: The FAA immediately banned U.S. commercial flights over Venezuela, citing “safety-of-flight risks associated with ongoing military activity.” The ban does not apply to foreign or military aircraft.
International Reactions: Cuba’s President Miguel Díaz-Canel condemned the strikes as “criminal” and called for global condemnation. Colombia’s President Gustavo Petro reported “bombing Caracas” and urged a UN meeting.
Trump’s Warnings
President Trump had repeatedly signaled the possibility of land strikes, stating on December 2 that they would begin “very soon” and be “easier” than sea operations. He described Venezuela as “completely surrounded by the largest Armada ever assembled in the History of South America” and warned Maduro that if he “plays tough, it’ll be the last time.”
The situation remains fluid, with Venezuela declaring a state of emergency and tensions rising across the region. The strikes represent one of the most direct U.S. military actions against Venezuela in recent decades.
