EditU.S. launches strikes on Venezuelan military targets amid escalating tensions
This follows months of U.S. pressure, including strikes on alleged drug-trafficking boats and a naval blockade
On January 3, 2026, multiple explosions rocked Caracas and surrounding areas in Venezuela, targeting military facilities including Fuerte Tiuna and La Carlota airbase. U.S. officials confirmed to CBS News and other outlets that President Donald Trump ordered the airstrikes, marking a sharp escalation in Washington’s campaign against President Nicolás Maduro’s regime.
The attacks, involving low-flying aircraft, caused power outages and panic among residents. Venezuela’s government denounced the action as “grave military aggression” aimed at seizing oil and minerals, declaring a national emergency and mobilizing defences.
Maduro called for public mobilization against the “imperialist attack”.
This follows months of U.S. pressure, including strikes on alleged drug-trafficking boats and a naval blockade, framed as counter-narcotics efforts under Operation Southern Spear. The Trump administration accuses Maduro of narco-terrorism and refuses to recognize his recent inauguration.
No immediate casualty figures were available, but the strikes signal potential further confrontation. Regional leaders, including Colombia’s Gustavo Petro, condemned the action and called for UN intervention.
Bloggers commented that it is likely that Putin is likely to lose two allies simultaneously – Venezuela and Iran. Last year Russia lost Syria as a key ally in the Mediterranean.
Divided narratives: Western media and online activists clash over nature of Iran’s unrest
But the attacks are also a blow to China. Amid escalating U.S.-Venezuela tensions, a high-level Chinese delegation led by Qiu Xiaoqi, Xi Jinping’s Special Representative for Latin America, met President Nicolás Maduro in Caracas on 2 January – just hours before reported U.S. airstrikes. The talks at Miraflores Palace reinforced bilateral ties, with Venezuela highlighting an “unbreakable brotherhood” against U.S. pressure.
Venezuela’s massive oil reserves – over 300 billion barrels – remain vital for China’s energy security, supplying about 4% of its crude imports (around 570,000 barrels daily) at discounted rates, often bypassing sanctions. This trade sustains Maduro’s regime while diversifying Beijing’s sources beyond the Middle East.
Sources: CBS News, Reuters, The New York Times, CNN
Caption: On social media, photos suggest military facilities including Fuerte Tiuna and La Carlota airbase have been targeted.
Updated: January 3, 2026 - 11:28
