As tensions grow between the United States and Venezuela, heavy gunfire was reported close to the presidential palace on the night of Monday, January 5, 2026.
According to CNN, the incident took place in the capital, Caracas, as video footage showed personnel shooting at drones flying over the palace without knowing their identities.
Authorities in downtown Caracas said that troops guarding the Miraflores Palace opened fire on what they claimed were “unauthorised drones.”
Shots fired at US Vice President JD Vance's residence
Hundreds of rounds were sprayed into the sky, with bullets falling back into nearby residential neighborhoods.
Residents reported that rounds tore through walls, shattered windows, and struck multiple buildings.
No casualties were, however, reported.
It was later discovered that there had been a miscommunication among the security forces, as the drone activity was part of a government‑sanctioned safety operation.
The White House clarified that the United States “played no role in the incident.”
The US added that it will be closely monitoring developments in Venezuela to avoid any chaotic situation.
This comes after Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro was captured by the US military and is facing trial in New York on charges relating to cocaine trafficking, narco‑terrorism, and other offenses.
Watch the incident below:
War Report: Gunfire at the Capital building of Venezuela is comfirmed. Still getting more information of what happening.
— Andy🇨🇺 (@AndyGeoP) January 6, 2026
This is likely spec ops that were dropped off on the ground or were unable to get evaced in time, Venezuelan Amored can be seen in one video. pic.twitter.com/Znf9xU7YcY
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