Blasts and Low-Flying Aircraft Heard in Venezuelan Capital Caracas
Reports surfaced of numerous explosions and the sound of low-altitude planes in Caracas in the early hours of Saturday. The situation has led to claims from Venezuela's government and requests for diplomatic action.
Caracas Condemns Washington of Military Action
The authoritarian government has condemned the US of an act of "foreign aggression," stating that former President Donald Trump reportedly authorized attacks against the Latin American country. In an official declaration, the authorities stated that attacks had impacted the capital and three other provinces: Miranda state, La Guaira, and Aragua state.
"Our only objective of these strikes is to take control of Venezuela's key assets, notably its crude oil and minerals," the statement declared.
The government called on the international community to denounce the operations, which it termed a "clear infringement of global law" that endangered countless of lives in jeopardy.
Accounts of Explosions and Defense Sites Hit
Locals spoke of hearing at least multiple powerful blasts around the middle of the night in the morning. Citizens in several districts reportedly rushed into the streets.
"Everything shook. It was terrifying. We experienced explosions and planes in the distance," stated one resident.
Smoke was observed billowing from two army bases in the city: the La Carlota airbase air base and the Fuerte Tiuna base compound, where president Maduro is thought to reside.
Regional Condemnation
The leader of neighboring Colombia, Gustavo Petro, claimed on X that "At this moment they are attacking Venezuela... attacking it with missiles." He demanded an urgent emergency session of the United Nations Security Council.
Colombia, which recently joined the UNSC, stated it would activate defense measures at its frontier with its neighbor.
Preceding Events
These reported strikes follow a months-long campaign of pressure by the United States 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 ships accused of narco-trafficking.
Venezuela's government has declared "the implementation of emergency" and directed all national defense plans to be initiated. It has also called on its citizens to take to the streets and "denounce this external act."
American officials and the Pentagon have not immediately commented on inquiries for a statement regarding the allegations.
