Devastating images show destruction from US raid that captured Maduro | US | News
Satellite images reveal the extent of the devastation caused by the US strike that resulted in the capture of Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro and his wife early on Saturday.
Before-and-after satellite photos show that much of Venezuela’s military infrastructure was destroyed in just a few minutes.
Numerous compounds were leveled and charred roads and debris were clearly visible in the aftermath. Entire structures were razed to the ground, while rows of parked vehicles were burned or torn to pieces.
According to the Venezuelan government, the raid left at least 40 people dead, including soldiers and civilians. US officials stated that the operation was completed in less than half an hour.
Venezuelan officials did not publicly disclose the death toll from the military or Maduro’s Cuban bodyguards.
Rosa González, 80, who lived in an apartment shot during the raid, was identified by local authorities as one of the victims, the New York Post reported.
According to satellite images, Fuerte Tiuna, Venezuela’s most important military complex near Caracas, took the brunt of the attack. Vantor’s images show entire buildings destroyed, with extensive explosion scars scarring the base.
According to eyewitnesses, the attack also affected the military air base La Carlota, where air defense units and runways were destroyed. La Guaira, a port that serves as a major logistics hub, suffered serious damage to containers and dock facilities.
Authorities reported that several other military installations near Caracas, Miranda, Aragua and La Guaira were also hit.
Local residents living in nearby neighborhoods reported that the attacks caused secondary explosions and fires, resulting in huge smoke clouds that could be seen for miles.
In Caracas, locals described the attacks as sightings of low-flying planes followed by power outages and explosions that turned night into day.
Citizens took to the streets and shared their experiences on social media, which was filled with images of the strike.
Both Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, are currently in US custody in New York and are expected to appear in federal court in Manhattan within a few days.
