India, Jan. 3 -- Tensions between Venezuela and the US escalated sharply after explosions rocked Caracas in the early hours of Saturday (Jan 3). Within hours, President Nicolas Maduro declared a national emergency, accusing the US of launching a military attack aimed at seizing the country's natural resources.

The announcement marks one of the most serious confrontations between the two nations in recent years and raises fears of wider regional instability.

Loud explosions jolted residents of Venezuela's capital overnight, sending people rushing into the streets. Several areas near military installations reported power outages, adding to public fear and confusion.

Shortly after the blasts, the Venezuelan government activated emergency ...