Blasts and Low-Altitude Planes Reported in Venezuelan Capital City Caracas
Accounts surfaced of numerous blasts and the roar of low-flying jets in Caracas in the small hours of Saturday morning. The event has sparked accusations from the Venezuelan authorities and calls for international action.
Caracas Condemns Washington of Aggression
The incumbent regime has accused the United States of an act of "imperialist aggression," alleging that ex- President Trump reportedly directed attacks against the South American state. In an formal declaration, the authorities asserted that strikes had targeted the capital and several other provinces: Miranda, La Guaira state, and Aragua state.
"Our primary goal of this aggression is to seize control of Venezuela's key assets, notably its crude oil and resources," the government said.
Venezuelan officials called on the world to condemn the strikes, which it labeled a "clear infringement of international norms" that put countless of lives in peril.
Reports of Blasts and Military Bases Targeted
Eyewitnesses reported feeling at least several detonations around 2 a.m. in the morning. Residents in different areas reportedly rushed into the streets outside.
"The earth trembled. It was terrifying. We experienced blasts and planes in the area," stated one resident.
Smoke was observed billowing from major defense sites in the city: the La Carlota military airfield and the Fuerte Tiuna base compound, where president Nicolás Maduro is believed to have a residence.
Global Reaction
The president of bordering Colombia, stated on X that "Right now they are striking Venezuela... bombing it with projectiles." He requested an immediate emergency meeting of the Security Council.
The Colombian government, which recently became a member of the UNSC, stated it would initiate security protocols at its frontier with its neighbor.
Context
These alleged attacks follow a prolonged pressure campaign by the US against the Maduro government. Since August, there has been a significant US military buildup off Venezuela's northern coast and a series of airstrikes on boats accused of illegal activities.
The government has announced "a state of external threat" and directed all national defence plans to be implemented. It has also summoned its political forces to protest and "reject this external attack."
American officials and the Defense Department did not promptly addressed requests for comment regarding the allegations.
