Venezuela faced turmoil on Monday night as gunfire erupted near the presidential palace in Caracas following the sudden ousting of President Nicolás Maduro. Videos shared on social media captured the intense gunfire in the capital city, with armed individuals seen moving around the Miraflores Palace area.
Local residents reported hearing what they believed to be “anti-aircraft” blasts near the palace, as chaos unfolded in the streets after Maduro and his wife were allegedly taken from their residence and transported to the US on 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 plans to help rebuild Venezuela’s infrastructure, suggesting a potential 18-month period before new elections could be held. Trump emphasized the need for stabilizing the country before allowing citizens to participate in elections.
Meanwhile, China issued a brief demand following the US capture of Maduro, expressing concerns over escalating tensions between Beijing and Washington. Maduro and his wife were seized from their compound and are now facing charges, including narco-terrorism and drug smuggling, in a New York court.
The raid by the US raised global alarm, signaling a willingness to take action against perceived threats. China and Russia, traditional adversaries of US dominance, condemned the operation that led to Maduro’s removal and subsequent trial in the US.
Chinese officials demanded the immediate release of Maduro and his wife, expressing worries over their extradition.