Venezuela rocked by explosions as Trump claims Maduro captured; U.S. Senator says no further action planned

Multiple explosions were reported in Caracas, hours before U.S. President Donald Trump claimed Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro had been captured and flown out of the country.

• Why it matters now: The claims mark a dramatic escalation in U.S.-Venezuela tensions, raising global concerns over sovereignty, security, and regional stability.

• What changes for people: Air travel has been restricted, security remains uncertain, and political leadership in Venezuela faces sudden upheaval.

• Who is affected: Venezuelan civilians, regional governments, global markets, and international diplomatic channels.

Venezuela was jolted by a series of explosions and military activity early Saturday, January 3, 2026, as U.S. President Donald Trump announced that President Nicolás Maduro had been captured in what he described as a large-scale U.S. strike.

Posting on social media, Trump said Maduro and his wife were seized during a joint operation involving U.S. forces and law enforcement agencies. He added that Maduro would be transported to face criminal charges, and said he would address the nation later in the day.

Explosions and airspace shutdown

Before Trump’s announcement, at least seven explosions were heard across Caracas, accompanied by low-flying aircraft over the capital.

The Venezuelan government accused the United States of targeting civilian and military installations, calling the action an act of aggression.

In response to the unfolding situation, the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) imposed an immediate ban on U.S. commercial flights in Venezuelan airspace, citing “ongoing military activity.”

All civilian air traffic involving U.S. carriers has been halted until further notice.

Rubio confirms trial, signals no further strikes

U.S. Senator Marco Rubio later confirmed that Maduro is expected to stand trial on criminal charges, but said the United States does not plan additional military action inside Venezuela at this stage.

His remarks appeared aimed at calming fears of a prolonged conflict, even as details of the operation remain unclear.