Local media outlets in Caracas are reporting that airstrikes have targeted the residence of Venezuela’s Minister of Defense, Vladimir Padrino López, amid a rapidly escalating security situation in the capital.
According to initial reports from Venezuelan television channels and journalists on the ground, the alleged strike occurred during the early hours of Saturday, shortly after multiple explosions were heard across Caracas and smoke was seen rising from major military installations, including La Carlota military airbase and Fuerte Tiuna, the country’s largest military complex.
No official confirmation yet
As of now, no official statement has been issued by the Venezuelan government, the Ministry of Defense, or President Nicolás Maduro confirming or denying that Padrino López’s residence was struck. Authorities have also not clarified whether the defence minister was present at the location at the time of the reported attack.
Government-linked media have remained largely silent, while independent and local outlets continue to cite eyewitness accounts and unverified sources.
Explosions, smoke and power outages reported
The report about the defence minister’s residence comes amid a broader wave of alarming developments in the capital:
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Multiple explosions were heard across Caracas, particularly near military zones
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Smoke was reported from La Carlota airbase and the Fuerte Tiuna military base
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Air raid sirens were heard in several neighbourhoods
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Low-flying aircraft were observed near key installations
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Power outages were reported in parts of southern Caracas
These incidents have triggered widespread speculation about possible targeted strikes on senior military leadership.
Rising geopolitical tensions
The developments come amid heightened tensions between Venezuela and the United States, including months of sanctions, military pressure, and recent US maritime operations in the Caribbean. President Maduro has previously accused Washington of attempting to destabilise his government, while also signalling openness to limited negotiations on issues such as oil and drug trafficking.
Adding to the concern, the US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued a NOTAM prohibiting US aircraft from flying over Venezuelan airspace, and flight-tracking data shows no commercial aircraft currently operating over the country.
Situation remains fluid
With official confirmation still pending, the reports about an airstrike on the defence minister’s home remain unverified. However, if confirmed, such an incident would mark a major escalation, signalling a direct threat to Venezuela’s top military leadership.
Authorities are yet to address the situation publicly, and residents in Caracas continue to report heavy security presence and ongoing uncertainty as the situation develops.
