Blasts and Low-Altitude Planes Heard in Venezuelan Capital Caracas
Reports emerged of multiple explosions and the roar of low-altitude jets in Caracas in the early hours of Saturday morning. This situation has led to claims from the Venezuelan government and calls for diplomatic scrutiny.
Caracas Condemns Washington of Attack
Venezuela's incumbent administration has blamed the United States of an act of "imperialist aggression," claiming that former President Donald Trump supposedly authorized attacks against the Latin American state. In an formal statement, the authorities confirmed that strikes had impacted Caracas and three other states: Miranda state, La Guaira state, and Aragua.
"The sole aim of this aggression is to gain control of Venezuela's natural resources, notably its oil and resources," the government declared.
Caracas called on the international community to denounce the strikes, which it described a "blatant breach of global law" that put numerous of civilians in jeopardy.
Accounts of Blasts and Military Installations Hit
Residents spoke of feeling roughly multiple explosions around the middle of the night in the morning. Residents in various areas allegedly hurried into the streets.
"The earth trembled. This is terrifying. We experienced explosions and planes in the area," stated one resident.
Plumes of smoke was observed rising from two defense sites in the city: the La Carlota military airfield and the Fuerte Tiuna base compound, where president Maduro is thought to reside.
International Condemnation
The president of neighboring Colombia, Gustavo Petro, claimed on X that "Currently they are striking Venezuela... attacking it with missiles." He requested an immediate emergency session of the United Nations Security Council.
Colombia, which recently joined the Security Council, said it would activate operational measures at its frontier with its neighbor.
Preceding Events
These reported attacks come after a months-long military buildup by the United States against the Venezuelan regime. Beginning in last summer, authorities reported a significant American military buildup off the country's northern coast and a series of strikes on boats linked to drug trafficking.
Venezuela's administration has declared "a state of emergency" and directed all national defence plans to be initiated. It has also urged its citizens to mobilize and "denounce this external aggression."
American officials and the US Department of Defense have not publicly commented on inquiries for a statement regarding the allegations.
