Caracas Rocked by Explosions, U.S. Imposes Flight Ban Amid Escalating Tensions with Maduro Regime

Venezuela's capital city of Caracas was jolted by at least seven explosions early Saturday morning, accompanied by reports of low-flying aircraft over the metropolitan area. The unsettling events unfolded just hours before the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) issued an immediate prohibition on all American aircraft from operating within Venezuelan airspace, citing security concerns.

Residents in Caracas reported hearing the explosions and witnessing aircraft flying at unusually low altitudes around 2 a.m. local time on Saturday, according to information obtained by The Associated Press. The nature and origin of these explosions remain unconfirmed, adding to the climate of uncertainty in the South American nation.

The FAA's Notice to Air Missions (NOTAM), issued at 1 a.m. EST, effectively grounded all U.S.-registered aircraft from entering Venezuelan airspace at any altitude. This drastic measure underscores growing concerns over regional stability and directly follows a period of heightened U.S. military activity in the Caribbean and Eastern Pacific, aimed at disrupting alleged drug-smuggling operations.

The developments come against a backdrop of intense diplomatic and military pressure from the United States on Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro's government. Washington has accused Maduro's inner circle of involvement in drug trafficking, leading to sanctions and indictments against top officials.

Just days prior, President Maduro indicated a surprising willingness to negotiate an agreement with the United States. This overture followed months of relentless American pressure, including the deployment of naval assets to the region to counter what the U.S. describes as a growing drug trade emanating from Venezuela. A national security expert, speaking recently, even predicted that Maduro's grip on power would falter under the sustained pressure from the Trump administration.

The precise nature of the explosions and the intent behind the low-flying aircraft remain unclear, fueling speculation and concern among international observers. The simultaneous imposition of a U.S. flight ban suggests a significant, if undisclosed, security assessment.

Venezuela's President Nicolas Maduro looks on during a meeting at the National Assembly in Caracas, Aug. 22, 2025. (Juan Barreto/AFP via Getty Images)

This remains a developing story. Further details are anticipated as authorities and international bodies monitor the situation closely.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

Michael Sinkewicz is a writer for Fox News Digital. Story tips can be sent to michael.sinkewicz@fox.com

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