A number of Loud Explosions Heard in Caracas on Saturday

Explosion in Venezuela early Saturday (Youtube)

JAKARTA - A number of loud explosions were heard in Caracas, the capital of Venezuela on Saturday, amid rising tensions between Venezuela and the United States, according to media reports.

Videos circulating on social media showed thick smoke billowing from several locations in the city, and air raid sirens could be heard.

At least seven explosions were reported, and low-flying aircraft were seen in the area.

As a result, several areas in the capital were reported to have experienced power outages, including the southern part of the city near the main military base.

Until now, the authorities have not issued an official statement.

In a previously recorded interview broadcast on Thursday on state television, Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro said his country was open to dialogue with the US on cooperation to combat drug trafficking.

Maduro said he was ready for dialogue, "whenever they want it, wherever they want it, and however they want it."

He accused Washington of pursuing regime change in Venezuela, saying its goal was to gain control of the country's abundant oil resources through a months-long campaign of pressure.