US Air Strikes Hit Venezuela; Government Declares National Emergency After Bombings

Venezuela has accused the United States of a military invasion following loud explosions and low-flying jets over Caracas. In response, the government has officially declared a state of emergency across the nation.

Smoke rising after US air strikes Venezuela military tension in Caracas.
Copyright AP Photo/Matias Delacroix

Late Friday night on January 2, 2026, panic gripped the Venezuelan capital of Caracas. Residents heard several low-flying aircraft followed by at least seven loud explosions echoing through the city. The incident occurred around 2:00 AM local time, causing widespread fear among the population. Hours later, the Venezuelan government issued a formal response. They labeled the event a direct military assault on the country’s sovereignty.

The government stated that “the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela completely rejects, condemns, and strongly denounces the extremely serious military aggression carried out by the current US government against Venezuelan territory and its civilian population.” According to officials, the strikes were not limited to Caracas. Attacks also targeted civilian and military zones in Miranda, Aragua, and La Guaira states. The government claims these actions endangered innocent lives and national security.

Violation of United Nations Charter

Venezuela described this alleged attack as a flagrant violation of the UN Charter. The government argues the strikes breach Articles 1 and 2, which guarantee sovereignty and legal equality. They also prohibit the use of force against any nation. Officials stated that this aggression poses a severe threat to international peace and stability. They specifically noted the risk to the Latin American and Caribbean regions.

The Alleged Motivation Behind the Attack

The Venezuelan government alleged the primary goal of the attack is to seize strategic resources. They specifically mentioned control over oil and mineral reserves as the motive. They further claimed the US intends to break their political independence through force. The official statement clarified that such attempts have failed before and will not succeed now. Venezuela remains a free nation that will not bow to imperialist pressure.

Historical Context and Call to the Public

The official statement referenced Venezuela’s long history of resisting external forces. It noted that the country has faced imperial powers since 1811. Officials cited the 1902 bombings as an example of past resilience against foreign pressure. They emphasized that the people of Venezuela stand ready today to protect their sovereignty. They invoked the legacy of freedom fighters like Bolivar and Miranda to inspire the public.

Mass Protests and National Mobilization

The government has called on all social and political groups to mobilize against this imperialist attack. According to the administration, the National Armed Forces and the police are united with the citizens. They are prepared to defend the peace and sovereignty of the land. Furthermore, Venezuela plans to file formal complaints with the UN Security Council and the UN Secretary-General. They will also reach out to CELAC and the Non-Aligned Movement.

President Maduro Declares National Emergency

Following these events, President Nicolas Maduro signed a decree declaring a nationwide state of emergency. He ordered the implementation of all national defense plans under constitutional laws. The President directed the immediate deployment of defense bodies in every state and municipality. These measures aim to prepare the country for any potential armed conflict or further aggression.

Emphasis on the Right to Self-Defense

Citing Article 51 of the UN Charter, Venezuela asserted its inherent right to self-defense. The government stated it would do whatever is necessary to protect its citizens and territory. They appealed to countries in Latin America, the Caribbean, and the world to stand in solidarity. The leadership remains firm in its stance to safeguard the country’s independence at any cost.


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