Detonations and Low-Altitude Aircraft Reported in Venezuela's Capital Caracas
Witness testimonies emerged of numerous blasts and the sound of low-altitude jets in the Venezuelan capital in the small hours of Saturday. The situation has led to claims from the Venezuelan government and calls for diplomatic action.
Caracas Accuses Washington of Military Action
The socialist government has blamed the United States of what it calls "imperialist aggression," claiming that ex- President Trump reportedly authorized military strikes against the Latin American country. In an formal declaration, the authorities confirmed that attacks had hit the capital and three other provinces: Miranda, La Guaira state, and Aragua state.
"The primary goal of this attack is to gain control of Venezuela's natural resources, notably its crude oil and minerals," the government said.
Caracas appealed to the global community to censure the actions, which it termed a "flagrant violation of international law" that endangered countless of civilians in danger.
Accounts of Explosions and Military Sites Targeted
Eyewitnesses spoke of feeling at least several explosions around 2:00 AM local time. People in several districts allegedly ran into the streets outside.
"Everything shook. It was frightening. We experienced explosions and aircraft in the area," said one witness.
Plumes of smoke was reported billowing from two military installations in the city: the La Carlota airfield and the Fuerte Tiuna base army base, where president Nicolás Maduro is believed to live.
Regional Reaction
The president of bordering Colombia, Gustavo Petro, claimed on X that "Right now they are attacking Caracas... bombing it with projectiles." He requested an immediate emergency meeting of the United Nations Security Council.
The Colombian government, which just became a member of the UNSC, announced it would initiate defense measures at its border with Venezuela.
Preceding Events
These alleged attacks follow a prolonged military buildup by the US against the Venezuelan government. Since August, there has been a major naval presence off Venezuela's northern coast and a number of air strikes on ships accused of drug trafficking.
The administration has stated "a state of external disturbance" and directed all defense protocols to be activated. It has also summoned its citizens to take to the streets and "reject this foreign aggression."
American officials and the Defense Department did not promptly commented on inquiries for comment regarding the allegations.
