Detonations and Low-Altitude Planes Witnessed in Venezuelan Capital City Caracas
Reports emerged of multiple detonations and the sound of low-flying aircraft in the Venezuelan capital in the early hours of Saturday morning. This incident has sparked claims from Venezuela's authorities and demands for diplomatic scrutiny.
Caracas Condemns Washington of Aggression
The incumbent government has accused the United States of what it calls "imperialist aggression," stating that former President Trump allegedly ordered strikes against the South American nation. In an formal declaration, the authorities stated that strikes had targeted Caracas and several other states: Miranda, La Guaira, and Aragua.
"The sole aim of these strikes is to take control of our nation's strategic resources, in particular its crude oil and mineral wealth," the government asserted.
The government urged the international community to condemn the operations, which it described a "clear infringement of global law" that endangered numerous of lives at risk in danger.
Reports of Explosions and Military Bases Hit
Locals reported hearing approximately seven detonations around the middle of the night in the morning. Citizens in various areas reportedly hurried into the open.
"The whole ground shook. This is frightening. We experienced blasts and aircraft in the area," said one local.
Smoke was observed pouring from key army bases in the city: the La Carlota air base and the Fuerte Tiuna base army base, where leader Nicolás Maduro is reported to live.
Global Reaction
The president of bordering Colombia, stated on X that "At this moment they are attacking Venezuela... attacking it with projectiles." He requested an immediate emergency session of the UN Security Council.
Colombia, which just became a member of the UNSC, announced it would initiate defense plans at its border with its neighbor.
Background
The reported strikes follow a extended pressure campaign by the United States against the Venezuelan administration. Since August, authorities reported a major American military buildup off Venezuela's Caribbean coast and a series of air strikes on vessels accused of drug trafficking.
Venezuela's administration has announced "a state of emergency" and commanded all national defence measures to be initiated. It has also summoned its supporters to protest and "denounce this external attack."
American officials and the US Department of Defense did not publicly commented on requests for a statement regarding the events.
