Several large explosions were reported in Caracas, Venezuela, with unclear causes, as videos on social media captured smoke columns. Telecommunication services faced disruptions in the capital city following the explosions. The US administration, led by President Donald Trump, has intensified sanctions and military presence in the region amid concerns of ground operations in Venezuela.
The US recently imposed sanctions on entities in Iran and Venezuela, alleging Iran’s supply of conventional weapons to Caracas. The US Department of State and Treasury targeted a Venezuelan company for selling Iranian combat unmanned aerial vehicles. These actions are part of the US strategy to curb Iran’s ballistic missile program and prevent its access to the US financial system.
According to US officials, Iran’s UAV and missile programs pose threats to US and allied personnel in the Middle East. Tensions between the US and Venezuela have escalated, with Caracas accusing Washington of seeking regime change and expanding military presence under anti-narco-terrorism efforts. In a significant move, the CIA conducted a drone strike on a dock facility in Venezuela, targeting a gang involved in drug trafficking activities.
