Venezuela witnessed turmoil on Monday night as reports of intense gunfire near the presidential palace in Caracas emerged following the sudden ousting of President Nicolás Maduro from power.
Videos shared on social media captured the sound of continuous gunfire reverberating throughout the capital. Footage from journalist Richard Humberto Blanco Bencomo depicted armed individuals moving in the vicinity of the Miraflores Palace and engaging in gunfire.
Residents reported hearing what they described as “anti-aircraft” explosions near the palace as chaos unfolded in the streets following Maduro and his wife’s alleged seizure from their residence and transport to the United States to face drug trafficking charges. Witnesses observed drones and anti-aircraft fire lighting up the night sky around 8:15 pm local time.
US President Donald Trump announced that the United States would aid in the reconstruction of Venezuela’s deteriorated infrastructure, hinting that new elections might occur in approximately 18 months. Trump emphasized the need for stabilizing the country before holding elections to choose a new leader.
Meanwhile, China issued a concise demand after US special forces swiftly apprehended Venezuelan leader Nicolas Maduro, raising concerns about escalating tensions between Beijing and Washington DC.
Maduro and his wife were forcibly taken from their compound during a daring nighttime operation and are now scheduled to appear in a New York court facing charges of narco-terrorism and drug smuggling into the US.
The US raid caused ripples globally as it demonstrated a willingness to challenge international norms and take decisive action against nations perceived as threats. Beijing and Moscow, who had aligned against US authority, expressed outrage after Maduro was extradited across the Americas for trial.
The Chinese government issued a stern four-word plea to US President Donald Trump: “Release them at once.” Chinese officials also voiced serious apprehension over the extradition of Maduro and his wife out of the country.