Security Concerns Rise as Heavy Gunfire Is Reported Near Venezuela’s Presidential Palace

Gunfire occurred near Venezuela’s Miraflores Presidential Palace in Caracas on Monday night, only days after US authorities captured former president Nicolás Maduro and transferred him to the United States. CNN obtained videos that appeared to show drone lights and anti-aircraft fire illuminating the night sky. The White House denied any involvement in the incident. CNN later confirmed that a “misunderstanding” caused the gunfire, citing discussions among regime-linked paramilitary groups that indicated confusion between different security teams operating near the palace.

Incident follows Maduro’s capture as US denies involvement and cites security confusion

Earlier on Monday, US officials brought Maduro to New York, where federal agents escorted him in handcuffs after he spent the night in a Brooklyn detention facility. Authorities later transported him to a Manhattan courthouse to face criminal charges. US Attorney General Pam Bondi stated that officials brought Maduro to the United States to “face justice.” The Trump administration described the operation as a law enforcement action rather than a military campaign, emphasizing that personnel followed US law and established protocols. Bondi said all individuals involved acted professionally and decisively.

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Maduro pleaded not guilty during his court appearance, while his legal team announced plans to challenge the legality of the US operation. US officials disclosed that last week they launched Operation Absolute Resolve, a highly classified mission involving Delta Force and federal law enforcement personnel in Caracas. The operation reportedly deployed more than 150 aircraft from 20 locations and aimed to detain Maduro and his wife on charges related to narco-terrorism and cocaine trafficking. Authorities transported Maduro to New York, where the court formally arraigned him.

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Following the mission, President Donald Trump stated that the United States would “run” Venezuela. Secretary of State Marco Rubio later clarified that Washington does not intend to govern the country but plans to impose blockades on Venezuela’s oil sector.