Venezuela-US tensions Highlights | Delcy Rodriguez appointed President day after Maduro's capture; India issues advisory
The US said the temporary limits on Caribbean airspace would end at midnight Eastern Time on Saturday, allowing airlines to restart flights as they update their schedules, according to Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy.
The restrictions were put in place after a US military operation in Venezuela and the arrest of President Nicolas Maduro, which caused hundreds of flights to be cancelled. Airlines such as United, Delta, and American said they were getting ready to bring back most Caribbean flights by Sunday, adding more flights, extra seats, and larger planes to help passengers who were left stranded.
Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim criticised the U.S. strikes on Venezuela, voicing alarm at their implications. "I have followed developments in Venezuela with grave concern".
I have followed developments in Venezuela with grave concern. The leader of Venezuela and his wife were seized in a United States military operation of unusual scope and nature. Such actions constitute a clear violation of international law and amount to an unlawful use of force… pic.twitter.com/9C1Fz1bppx
— Anwar Ibrahim (@anwaribrahim) January 4, 2026
North Korea has explcitly criticised US strikes on Venezuela, calling them the most serious violation of sovereignty. Describing the action as further proof of Washington’s "rogue and brutal nature," KCNA quoted a spokesperson from North Korea’s Foreign Ministry as saying the incident once again underscored the United States’ aggressive conduct.
Ukraine’s Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha said that Ukraine has always supported the right of countries to live freely, without dictatorship, oppression, or human rights abuses. Referring to Nicolás Maduro, he said the Maduro government has broken these principles in every way. He added that Ukraine supports steps that follow international law and give priority to democracy, human rights, and the welfare of the Venezuelan people.
PTC Web Desk: Multiple explosions were heard across Venezuela’s capital Caracas in the early hours of Saturday, creating panic among residents. Loud blasts echoed through several neighbourhoods, while parts of the southern city near a major military base reportedly lost electricity.
According to media reports, at least seven explosions were heard in different parts of the city. Low-flying aircraft were also seen over Caracas, adding to fears among locals. Videos circulating on social media, though not officially verified, claim to show the moment the explosions occurred.
People rushed out of their homes in many areas, gathering on streets as confusion spread. Some residents also reported hearing gunfire from a distance.
US officials aware of reports
Sources cited by US media said officials in the Donald Trump administration are aware of reports about explosions and aircraft activity over Caracas. However, no official statement has been released so far by the US government or the Pentagon.
JUST IN: Multiple explosions are detonating in Venezuela’s capital, Caracas. pic.twitter.com/Uzon0D5l3l
— Weather Monitor (@WeatherMonitors) January 3, 2026
Tensions between US and Venezuela
The incident comes at a time of growing tension between the United States and Venezuela. The Trump-led administration has taken several steps against President Nicolas Maduro’s government, including seizing oil tankers and carrying out at least one reported airstrike on Venezuelan territory in the past.
Caracas a las 2 de la Mañana #Caracas #venezuela pic.twitter.com/jh8URRlIvy
— David (@anthonyseijas2) January 3, 2026
Trump has earlier warned that ground operations against Venezuela were also a possibility. The US military has also conducted multiple strikes on boats accused of drug trafficking in nearby seas, resulting in over 100 deaths, according to US military data.
Maduro rejects US allegations
President Nicolas Maduro has denied all allegations of criminal links. He has accused the United States of trying to overthrow his government to gain control over Venezuela’s vast oil reserves and mineral resources.
No official confirmation yet
As of now, neither the Venezuelan government nor US defence authorities have confirmed the cause of the explosions. The situation in Caracas remains tense, with many questions still unanswered.
- With inputs from agencies
