Caracas residents awoke to terror as US fighter jets streaked across the sky, unleashing missiles on La Carlota airbase and other strategic sites. Eyewitnesses recounted windows shattering from explosions, with one local saying, 'It felt like an earthquake—smoke everywhere, people screaming.' The strikes, part of Operation Absolute Resolve, preceded a ground raid that netted Maduro.
In the aftermath, streets filled with debris and confused crowds, some cheering the end of Maduro's era, others fearing occupation. Hospitals overflowed with injured, including civilians caught in crossfire. Trump justified the action as necessary to combat drug trafficking and restore democracy.
As Venezuelan forces surrendered en masse, interim leaders called for calm. The event draws parallels to past US interventions, raising fears of prolonged conflict in the region.
This firsthand chaos underscores the human cost of geopolitical rivalries, with Venezuela's future hanging in the balance.
TL;DR
- Multiple explosions heard in Caracas around 2 AM Jan 3, 2026.
- Targets: La Carlota airbase, ports, military installations.
- Eyewitness: 'Jets flew low, blasts shook buildings for hours.'
- Casualties: At least 50 dead, hundreds injured per reports.
- Maduro captured in bunker raid; wife also detained.
- Residents mixed: Some celebrate, others protest US 'invasion'.
- Power outages, debris in streets post-strikes.
- Trump: 'Effective display of American power'.
- Venezuelan military: Many units surrendered quickly.
- Aftermath: Curfews imposed, aid needed for affected areas.
