Blasts and Low-Flying Planes Heard in Venezuelan Capital Caracas
Reports surfaced of multiple detonations and the sound of low-altitude jets in Caracas in the small hours of Saturday. The incident has prompted accusations from the Venezuelan government and calls for international scrutiny.
Caracas Accuses United States of Military Action
Venezuela's socialist administration has condemned the US of an act of "imperialist aggression," stating that ex- President Donald Trump allegedly authorized strikes against the South American country. In an official announcement, the authorities asserted that attacks had impacted Caracas and three other provinces: Miranda state, La Guaira state, and Aragua state.
"The only objective of these strikes is to take control of Venezuela's strategic resources, especially its petroleum and resources," the statement asserted.
Venezuelan officials urged the world to censure the operations, which it described a "blatant breach of international law" that put millions of lives at risk in peril.
Accounts of Blasts and Military Installations Targeted
Locals described feeling approximately several detonations around the middle of the night local time. People in various areas allegedly rushed into the streets outside.
"The whole ground shook. It was terrifying. We heard blasts and aircraft in the sky," said one resident.
Smoke was seen pouring from key army bases in the city: the La Carlota airbase air base and the Fuerte Tiuna army base, where president Maduro is believed to reside.
Global Condemnation
The president of neighboring Colombia, Gustavo Petro, wrote on X that "At this moment they are striking Venezuela... attacking it with missiles." He demanded an swift meeting of the Security Council.
The Colombian government, which recently joined the UNSC, said it would activate operational plans at its border with its neighbor.
Background
These reported attacks come after a prolonged military buildup by the US against the Venezuelan administration. Beginning in last summer, there has been a substantial US military presence off the country's northern coast and a series of airstrikes on vessels suspected of illegal activities.
Venezuela's government has announced "the implementation of external threat" and commanded all national defence plans to be implemented. It has also urged its political forces to take to the streets and "reject this external act."
The White House and the Pentagon have not publicly addressed requests for clarification regarding the allegations.
