Blasts and Low-Altitude Planes Reported in Venezuelan Capital Caracas
Reports emerged of numerous detonations and the sound of low-altitude aircraft in Caracas in the early hours of the weekend. The incident has prompted accusations from the Venezuelan leadership and demands for diplomatic intervention.
Venezuela Condemns Washington of Attack
Venezuela's socialist administration has accused the US of an act of "foreign aggression," claiming that former President Donald Trump reportedly ordered military strikes against the South American nation. In an formal announcement, the government confirmed that strikes had targeted the capital and three other provinces: Miranda state, La Guaira, and Aragua state.
"Our only objective of this aggression is to take control of Venezuela's natural resources, notably its crude oil and resources," the government said.
Caracas urged the world to denounce the operations, which it labeled a "flagrant violation of international law" that put countless of lives in danger.
Accounts of Explosions and Defense Sites Hit
Locals described hearing approximately seven explosions around 2 a.m. in the morning. People in several districts reportedly rushed into the streets.
"Everything shook. This is terrifying. We experienced explosions and planes in the distance," said one local.
Plumes of smoke was reported billowing from two military installations in the city: the La Carlota military airfield and the Fuerte Tiuna military base, where leader Nicolás Maduro is thought to have a residence.
Global Reaction
The leader of bordering Colombia, wrote on X that "Currently they are bombing Caracas... attacking it with rockets." He requested an immediate emergency session of the UN Security Council.
The Colombian government, which just joined the Security Council, said it would initiate security measures at its frontier with Venezuela.
Background
These alleged strikes come after a extended pressure campaign by the United States against the Venezuelan regime. Since last summer, authorities reported a significant US military deployment off the country's northern coast and a number of strikes on vessels accused of drug trafficking.
The administration has declared "the implementation of emergency" and ordered all national defense measures to be implemented. It has also urged its citizens to mobilize and "reject this imperialist act."
American officials and the Pentagon have not publicly addressed requests for a statement regarding the allegations.
