What Happened Near Venezuela's Presidential Palace?
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Synopsis
Gunfire near Venezuela's presidential palace has led to the evacuation of government buildings. This incident unfolds amid political turmoil as President Maduro faces serious charges in the US while Trump asserts control over Venezuela. The situation raises global concerns about the country's stability and the implications of US intervention.
Key Takeaways
- Gunfire near the presidential palace results in evacuations.
- US intervention in Venezuela raises global concerns.
- Trump claims control, asserting elections cannot happen without stability.
- Maduro faces serious legal charges in the US.
- Rodriguez demands Maduro's immediate release amidst the crisis.
Caracas, Jan 6 (NationPress) Reports indicate that gunfire erupted in the vicinity of Venezuela's presidential palace. In response to the chaos, several government buildings were evacuated on Monday (local time).
According to a reliable government source, the situation is currently under control.
The source elaborated that unidentified drones were observed flying above the presidential palace in central Caracas, leading security forces to return fire, as reported by Xinhua news agency.
Earlier in the day, US President Donald Trump declared that elections in Venezuela would not take place within the next 30 days.
"We need to restore the country first. An election cannot occur without the ability for the people to vote," Trump stated during an NBC News interview.
This statement followed the recent extraction of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro from Caracas by US forces.
Trump named several members of his administration, including Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth, White House Deputy Chief of Staff Stephen Miller, and Vice President JD Vance, who will oversee US involvement in Venezuela.
Trump mentioned that his administration might support US oil companies investing in and restoring Venezuela's energy infrastructure, suggesting that this could be achieved in under 18 months.
"I believe we can complete this sooner, but it will require significant funds," Trump remarked.
He noted that a large sum will need to be invested by the oil companies, which will later be reimbursed through revenue.
Trump refuted the notion that the US is at war with Venezuela.
"We are at war with those involved in drug trafficking and those who are sending criminals and addicts into our nation," he stated.
Earlier on that Monday, Maduro, who faced arraignment in New York on charges including narco-terrorism conspiracy and conspiracy to import cocaine, pleaded not guilty, asserting his role as the leader of Venezuela even as Vice President Delcy Rodriguez assumed the role of acting president.
Trump claimed that Rodriguez has been cooperating with US officials.
On Sunday night, Trump asserted that the United States is 'in control' of Venezuela and expressed the need for Rodriguez to grant the US 'full access,' particularly to Venezuela's oil resources.
Meanwhile, Rodriguez called for the 'immediate release' of Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, during a National Defence Council session broadcast on state television channel VTV, referring to Maduro as "the only president of Venezuela" and condemning US actions as 'a savage attack.'
The international community has reacted with shock to the actions taken by the Trump administration against Maduro.
Point of View
The unfolding events in Venezuela are critical for regional stability. The involvement of the US raises questions about sovereignty and intervention. It is essential for the nation to navigate these challenges with a focus on diplomatic solutions while maintaining national interests.
NationPress
08/01/2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What triggered the gunfire near Venezuela's presidential palace?
Unidentified drones were seen flying over the presidential palace, leading security forces to return fire.
What did President Trump say about Venezuelan elections?
Trump stated that elections will not take place in Venezuela within the next 30 days, emphasizing the need for stability first.
How has the international community reacted?
The international community has expressed shock over the Trump administration's actions against Maduro.
What are the charges against President Maduro?
Maduro faces charges including narco-terrorism conspiracy and conspiracy to import cocaine.
Who is currently acting as Venezuela's president?
Vice President Delcy Rodriguez is serving as the acting president while Maduro faces legal challenges.
