Detonations and Low-Altitude Planes Reported in Venezuela's Capital Caracas City
Accounts surfaced of multiple explosions and the noise of low-flying planes in the Venezuelan capital in the small hours of Saturday morning. The situation has led to allegations from the Venezuelan leadership and requests for international intervention.
Caracas Blames US of Military Action
The socialist administration has blamed the Washington of committing "imperialist aggression," stating that former President Donald Trump allegedly directed attacks against the Latin American state. In an formal announcement, the government confirmed that attacks had hit the capital and three other regions: Miranda state, La Guaira, and Aragua.
"The only objective of this aggression is to take control of our nation's strategic resources, especially its oil and minerals," the government declared.
The government urged the international community to denounce the actions, which it labeled a "clear infringement of global law" that placed numerous of civilians in peril.
Accounts of Blasts and Military Installations Targeted
Eyewitnesses spoke of experiencing roughly seven explosions around the middle of the night local time. Residents in different areas allegedly ran into the open.
"The earth trembled. This is terrifying. We heard explosions and aircraft in the sky," said one witness.
Black smoke was seen pouring from two defense sites in Caracas: the La Carlota airbase air base and the Fuerte Tiuna military base, where president Maduro is reported to have a residence.
Global Condemnation
The leader of neighboring Colombia, stated on X that "Currently they are bombing Caracas... bombing it with projectiles." He called for an swift emergency meeting of the Security Council.
Colombia, which just joined the UNSC, said it would initiate defense measures at its shared border with its neighbor.
Context
The alleged attacks come after a extended pressure campaign by the US against the Maduro government. Beginning in last summer, there has been a substantial naval buildup off Venezuela's northern coast and a number of air strikes on boats accused of illegal activities.
The administration has announced "a state of external threat" and directed all national defense protocols to be implemented. It has also urged its political forces to protest and "denounce this foreign attack."
US authorities and the Defense Department have not publicly commented on requests for clarification regarding the reports.
