The US invasion of Venezuela has left at least 80 people dead, according to The New York Times, citing senior Venezuelan officials assessing casualties nationwide today.
The official said civilians and security personnel were among those killed, warning numbers may rise as rescue teams search damaged neighborhoods across Caracas and surrounding districts.
Early Saturday, powerful explosions struck Caracas before dawn, shattering windows, collapsing structures, and triggering panic across several densely populated districts, witnesses told local media outlets.
Residents described sirens, smoke, and power outages spreading rapidly, while emergency services struggled to reach affected areas amid road closures and security cordons.
Hours later, President Donald Trump announced on social media that American forces had captured Venezuela’s leader, Nicolas Maduro, alongside his wife, during the operation.
At a subsequent press conference, Trump declared the mission successful, stating the United States would temporarily oversee Venezuela’s affairs during an anticipated political transition.
“We don’t want to be involved with having somebody else get in and end up with the same situation,” Trump said, emphasizing what he called a cautious transition.
He added that any transition “has to be judicious, because that’s what we’re all about,” framing Washington’s intentions as stability-focused rather than permanent control.
Trump characterized the military action as “an incredible thing to see,” asserting that no American soldiers were killed during the strike.
He further insisted no US military equipment was lost, underscoring claims of operational precision and overwhelming superiority during the rapid assault.
The White House echoed the president’s remarks, expressing confidence that Venezuela’s institutions would comply with US directives following Maduro’s capture.
Officials said interim leader Delcy Rodríguez was expected to cooperate with Washington to facilitate a transition process acceptable to international partners.
However, Venezuela’s Defence Minister reportedly rejected suggestions the United States would “run” the country, signaling resistance within the state apparatus.
The minister’s statement suggested elements of the military and bureaucracy remain opposed to foreign control despite leadership upheaval in Caracas.
Across Venezuela, reactions were mixed, with some citizens expressing relief at Maduro’s removal while others condemned the invasion as a violation of sovereignty.
A Caracas shopkeeper said, “We woke up terrified, not knowing who was attacking or why,” reflecting widespread confusion during the explosions.
International observers warned the US invasion of Venezuela could deepen polarization and spark prolonged instability across the oil-rich nation.
Regional governments convened emergency meetings, debating diplomatic responses amid fears of spillover effects across northern South America.
Several Latin American leaders called for restraint, urging respect for international law and protection of civilians amid rapidly unfolding events.
In contrast, US allies emphasized concerns about narcotics trafficking networks allegedly operating within Venezuelan territory.
Trump reiterated long-standing claims linking Venezuela’s leadership to drug trafficking, warning that further action could follow if cooperation faltered.
He noted additional land-based strikes could begin soon, heightening anxieties about continued military engagement on Venezuelan soil.
In October, Trump disclosed he had authorized the CIA to operate inside Venezuela to curb illegal drugs and migrant flows.
That authorization, previously controversial, now appears central to Washington’s justification for the weekend’s dramatic intervention.
Human rights groups expressed alarm at civilian casualties, demanding independent investigations into deaths caused by the explosions.
An advocacy spokesperson said, “Any transition must prioritize civilian protection and accountability for loss of life.”
Hospitals in Caracas reportedly treated dozens of injured residents, with medical staff describing shortages of supplies and electricity disruptions.
Doctors appealed for calm, urging authorities to guarantee access for ambulances and humanitarian assistance amid ongoing security operations.
The US invasion of Venezuela also rattled energy markets, as investors worried about disruptions to oil production and exports.
Analysts cautioned that uncertainty over governance could delay shipments, affecting global prices and regional economies alike.
Within Venezuela, interim authorities attempted to reassure citizens, promising continuity of essential services and public order.
State television urged residents to resume normal activities where possible, while acknowledging significant damage in affected areas.
Opposition figures, long marginalized under Maduro, cautiously welcomed his capture but called for inclusive dialogue.
One opposition leader said, “This moment must not replace one form of authoritarianism with another.”
Meanwhile, protests erupted in some neighborhoods, with demonstrators demanding an immediate end to foreign military presence.
Security forces dispersed gatherings, raising concerns about potential clashes during an already volatile transition period.
Diplomats at the United Nations debated emergency resolutions, with divisions reflecting broader geopolitical rivalries.
Russia and China reportedly criticized the operation, reiterating support for Venezuelan sovereignty and non-intervention principles.
European governments issued measured statements, urging de-escalation and humanitarian access while monitoring developments closely.
Read also: Nicolás Maduro cocaine corruption charges shake Venezuela as US unseals explosive indictment
African and Caribbean nations expressed concern, warning the precedent could destabilize international norms governing state conduct.
Back in Washington, lawmakers debated oversight, with critics questioning the legality and long-term strategy behind the intervention.
Supporters argued decisive action was necessary to combat crime networks and restore democratic governance in Venezuela.
As rescue operations continue, families search for missing relatives amid rubble and uncertainty across Caracas.
The US invasion of Venezuela now stands as a defining moment, with consequences likely shaping regional politics for years ahead.
About The Author
