Gunfire, explosions reported near Venezuelan presidential palace in Caracas

Unconfirmed reports of heavy gunfire and explosions emerged from the vicinity of Venezuela's presidential palace in Caracas late Monday, adding to the chaos following the capture of the country's leader. Social media footage circulated showing armed individuals and military vehicles around the Miraflores Palace as citizens sought cover.

The incident and initial reports

The incident, which local media reported began around 8 p.m. local time, followed sightings of unidentified drones circling the government complex. Preliminary accounts suggest government buildings were evacuated as a security precaution. While the shooting raised immediate concerns of a possible coup attempt, early indications pointed to the situation being brought under control. No official statement or casualty figures have been released by Venezuelan authorities.

Context of profound instability

The violence erupts at a moment of extreme vulnerability for the Venezuelan state. It comes mere hours after Vice President Delcy Rodríguez was formally sworn in as acting president, following the unprecedented capture of President Nicolás Maduro and his wife by U.S. military forces over the weekend. The country remains under a declared State of External Emergency.

US denies involvement and regional concerns

A senior U.S. White House official, cited by American media, stated that Washington is "closely tracking" the reports but asserted that "the US is not involved." For the international community, including nations like Türkiye that prioritize stability and condemn foreign interventions, the unfolding events in Caracas illustrate the dangerous power vacuum and potential for internal conflict that can follow external military actions, underscoring the critical need for responsible diplomacy and respect for sovereign political processes.