CARACAS - Venezuelan officials say explosive drones went off as President Nicolás Maduro was giving a live televised speech in Caracas, but he is unharmed.

Communications Minister Jorge Rodriguez said this was an attempt on Maduro's life and seven soldiers were injured.

Maduro was seen speaking at an outdoor military event when he and other officials suddenly looked upwards - startled. The audio then cut off.

Dozens of soldiers were seen running away before the broadcast was halted. Loud bangs could also be heard in the footage.

Rodriguez said the attack happened when Maduro was speaking at the event to mark the 81st anniversary of the Venezuelan army.

Charred windows were seen near the place where President Maduro was speaking. Two drones loaded with explosives went off near the president's stand, he added.

The minister accused the country's right-wing opposition of carrying out the attack.

"After losing the vote, they failed again," Rodriguez told the BBC. He was referring to May's presidential elections, where Maduro was re-elected for another six-year term.

Story Date: August 6, 2018