Detonations and Low-Altitude Planes Reported in Venezuelan Capital Caracas
Witness testimonies surfaced of several explosions and the sound of low-flying planes in Caracas in the small hours of Saturday. This event has prompted claims from Venezuela's authorities and demands for global intervention.
Caracas Accuses US of Aggression
The authoritarian regime has accused the Washington of an act of "imperial aggression," claiming that former President Donald Trump reportedly authorized attacks against the South American state. In an public declaration, the government stated that strikes had impacted Caracas and three other provinces: Miranda state, La Guaira, and Aragua state.
"The only objective of these strikes is to seize control of our nation's key assets, especially its oil and resources," the statement said.
Caracas called on the world to condemn the strikes, which it termed a "flagrant violation of international norms" that put numerous of civilians in danger.
Reports of Blasts and Military Bases Hit
Residents described feeling approximately seven explosions around 2:00 AM in the morning. Citizens in several neighborhoods allegedly hurried into the open.
"Everything shook. This is frightening. We experienced explosions and aircraft in the area," commented one local.
Black smoke was seen rising from major military installations in Caracas: the La Carlota airbase air base and the Fuerte Tiuna military base, where president Nicolás Maduro is reported to have a residence.
Global Reaction
The president of bordering Colombia, claimed on social media that "Currently they are attacking Venezuela... attacking it with projectiles." He called for an swift emergency session of the UN Security Council.
The Colombian government, which recently became a member of the Security Council, announced it would initiate operational measures at its border with Venezuela.
Background
The alleged strikes are preceded by a prolonged pressure campaign by the US against the Maduro administration. Beginning in August, there has been a major American military presence off the country's northern coast and a number of air strikes on vessels suspected of illegal activities.
The government has stated "a state of external disturbance" and directed all national defense measures to be activated. It has also urged its political forces to mobilize and "reject this foreign aggression."
The White House and the US Department of Defense did not promptly addressed requests for a statement regarding the allegations.
