Detonations and Low-Altitude Planes Heard in Venezuela's Capital Caracas City
Witness testimonies circulated of multiple explosions and the noise of low-altitude aircraft in the Venezuelan capital in the early hours of Saturday morning. This incident has prompted allegations from Venezuela's leadership and demands for global scrutiny.
Caracas Accuses United States of Aggression
Venezuela's authoritarian administration has blamed the US of committing "imperialist aggression," alleging that ex- President Donald Trump supposedly authorized attacks against the Latin American state. In an public announcement, the government confirmed that strikes had targeted Caracas and three other states: Miranda, La Guaira, and Aragua.
"The sole aim of this aggression is to take control of Venezuela's natural resources, especially its petroleum and minerals," Venezuela asserted.
Venezuelan officials called on the global community to condemn the actions, which it termed a "blatant breach of international law" that endangered countless of lives in jeopardy.
Accounts of Blasts and Military Installations Hit
Locals reported hearing roughly several detonations around 2 a.m. local time. Citizens in various neighborhoods allegedly ran into the open.
"The earth trembled. It was terrifying. We experienced blasts and jets in the area," stated one local.
Black smoke was seen rising from two army bases in the city: the La Carlota military airfield and the Fuerte Tiuna base compound, where leader Maduro is believed to have a residence.
Global Response
The leader of bordering Colombia, Gustavo Petro, claimed on X that "Currently they are attacking Venezuela... attacking it with rockets." He requested an immediate emergency meeting of the Security Council.
Colombia, which just joined the Security Council, stated it would activate operational protocols at its border with Venezuela.
Background
The alleged attacks come after a prolonged military buildup by the US against the Maduro regime. Beginning in last summer, authorities reported a significant American military buildup off the country's Caribbean coast and a number of strikes on ships linked to illegal activities.
The administration has announced "a state of external threat" and commanded all national defence measures to be activated. It has also summoned its citizens to take to the streets and "repudiate this imperialist act."
American officials and the Defense Department have not promptly commented on inquiries for clarification regarding the events.
