Detonations and Low-Altitude Aircraft Witnessed in Venezuelan Capital Caracas
Reports emerged of multiple explosions and the noise of low-flying aircraft in the Venezuelan capital in the pre-dawn hours of Saturday morning. This event has prompted accusations from Venezuela's authorities and requests for diplomatic intervention.
Venezuela Accuses US of Attack
The authoritarian administration has blamed the US of what it calls "imperial aggression," claiming that former President Donald Trump allegedly authorized attacks against the Latin American country. In an public announcement, the government confirmed that strikes had targeted the capital and three other regions: Miranda, La Guaira state, and Aragua state.
"Our primary goal of this attack is to gain control of Venezuela's natural resources, notably its oil and mineral wealth," the statement asserted.
Venezuelan officials called on the global community to condemn the actions, which it labeled a "flagrant violation of international law" that placed countless of civilians in danger.
Accounts of Explosions and Military Installations Targeted
Locals spoke of experiencing at least several powerful blasts around 2 a.m. in the morning. People in different districts allegedly hurried into the streets.
"Everything shook. It was horrible. We experienced explosions and aircraft in the area," said one local.
Plumes of smoke was observed pouring from two army bases in the city: the La Carlota air base and the Fuerte Tiuna compound, where leader Maduro is believed to reside.
International Condemnation
The president of neighboring Colombia, Gustavo Petro, stated on a social platform that "Currently they are bombing Caracas... attacking it with projectiles." He demanded an urgent meeting of the UN Security Council.
The Colombian government, which just joined the UNSC, said it would initiate defense measures at its shared border with Venezuela.
Context
These alleged attacks follow a months-long pressure campaign by the US against the Venezuelan government. Beginning in last summer, authorities reported a major US military presence off Venezuela's Caribbean coast and a series of airstrikes on boats linked to narco-trafficking.
The administration has stated "the implementation of emergency" and directed all defense measures to be initiated. It has also summoned its political forces to take to the streets and "denounce this imperialist aggression."
US authorities and the Pentagon have not immediately responded to requests for clarification regarding the reports.
