Explosions and Low-Flying Aircraft Reported in Venezuela's Capital City Caracas City
Witness testimonies emerged of numerous detonations and the roar of low-flying aircraft in Caracas in the early hours of the weekend. The incident has sparked accusations from the Venezuelan government and demands for global intervention.
Venezuela Condemns Washington of Attack
Venezuela's authoritarian administration has condemned the US of committing "imperialist aggression," stating that former President Donald Trump reportedly directed attacks against the Latin American country. In an formal statement, the authorities confirmed that strikes had hit Caracas and several other provinces: Miranda, La Guaira, and Aragua state.
"The primary goal of this attack is to seize control of Venezuela's key assets, notably its oil and resources," the statement asserted.
Caracas appealed to the international community to denounce the strikes, which it described a "clear infringement of international norms" that endangered millions of civilians in jeopardy.
Accounts of Blasts and Defense Sites Targeted
Residents reported feeling at least seven explosions around 2 a.m. local time. Citizens in various districts reportedly ran into the streets.
"Everything shook. This is frightening. We heard blasts and aircraft in the area," said one local.
Plumes of smoke was observed pouring from key army bases in Caracas: the La Carlota airbase air base and the Fuerte Tiuna compound, where president Nicolás Maduro is thought to have a residence.
International Condemnation
The leader of bordering Colombia, stated on a social platform that "Right now they are striking Venezuela... bombing it with projectiles." He demanded an urgent emergency session of the Security Council.
The Colombian government, which recently joined the Security Council, said it would activate operational measures at its border with its neighbor.
Background
The alleged strikes come after a months-long campaign of pressure by the US against the Venezuelan government. Beginning in August, authorities reported a substantial naval presence off the country's Caribbean coast and a number of air strikes on vessels suspected of drug trafficking.
Venezuela's administration has stated "the implementation of emergency" and directed all national defense protocols to be initiated. It has also called on its citizens to mobilize and "reject this external attack."
US authorities and the Pentagon have not immediately responded to requests for clarification regarding the events.
