UPDATE: In a dramatic military operation early Saturday, U.S. forces targeted multiple locations in northern Venezuela as part of an urgent mission to detain President Nicolas Maduro. The operation, which began around 2 a.m. local time, included strikes on surface-to-air missile systems, communications facilities, and depots, according to reports from ABC News.
Explosions were reported along the Venezuelan Caribbean coast, particularly in the towns of Higuerote and La Guaira. Eyewitness videos captured substantial damage at Higuerote’s airport, where at least two explosions destroyed a Russian-supplied BUK missile system alongside a damaged aircraft and airport building.
The operation did not target the Miraflores Palace, Maduro’s official residence, raising questions about the mission’s intent. Retired U.S. Marine Colonel Steve Ganyard confirmed the destruction of the BUK system, stating that satellite images corroborated the extensive damage, including a crater at the site.
In Caracas, five critical locations were struck, including the significant La Carlota Air Base, where another BUK system was taken out. Additionally, buildings at a communications complex in El Volcan were reportedly destroyed, although the current operational status of the antennas remains unclear.
During a Saturday morning briefing, Gen. Dan Caine, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, revealed that the mission involved over 150 aircraft, including fighter jets, bombers, and surveillance planes. The most intense strikes occurred at the Fuerte Tiuna military complex, where multiple targets were successfully hit.
Satellite imagery from Vantor indicates that at least four buildings were destroyed during the operation. One targeted structure was used for housing large vehicles; as of 11 a.m. local time, smoke was still visible from the site. Other buildings near the military complex were also obliterated, raising concerns about the effectiveness of Venezuela’s air defense capabilities.
This operation represents a significant escalation in U.S.-Venezuelan tensions and highlights the ongoing struggle for power in the region. The implications for both countries and their citizens are profound, as the situation continues to develop.
As the dust settles, analysts are closely monitoring the aftermath of these strikes. The international community is urged to pay attention to any potential fallout, both diplomatically and militarily, as Venezuela grapples with this unprecedented military engagement.
Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story.