Detonations and Low-Altitude Aircraft Reported in Venezuelan Capital Caracas
Accounts circulated of multiple blasts and the noise of low-altitude planes in Caracas in the early hours of Saturday morning. The event has prompted claims from the Venezuelan government and calls for international scrutiny.
Venezuela Accuses US of Aggression
Venezuela's socialist government has condemned the United States of committing "imperial aggression," claiming that former President Trump reportedly ordered military strikes against the Latin American nation. In an official declaration, the government asserted that strikes had targeted Caracas and three other states: Miranda state, La Guaira state, and Aragua.
"The sole aim of this aggression is to seize control of Venezuela's strategic resources, notably its petroleum and minerals," the government said.
Caracas called on the world to censure the operations, which it labeled a "blatant breach of international norms" that put countless of civilians in jeopardy.
Reports of Blasts and Defense Sites Targeted
Residents described hearing at least several detonations around 2 a.m. in the morning. People in several areas allegedly ran into the open.
"The whole ground shook. It was horrible. We heard explosions and planes in the area," stated one local.
Smoke was reported pouring from key army bases in Caracas: the La Carlota airbase airfield and the Fuerte Tiuna base compound, where president Maduro is reported to live.
Global Response
The leader of bordering Colombia, Gustavo Petro, claimed on X that "Currently they are striking Venezuela... attacking it with projectiles." He demanded an swift emergency session of the Security Council.
The Colombian government, which just became a member of the Security Council, announced it would initiate security protocols at its frontier with its neighbor.
Context
These alleged attacks are preceded by a extended military buildup by the United States against the Venezuelan government. Since August, authorities reported a substantial American military presence off the country's Caribbean coast and a series of airstrikes on boats suspected of illegal activities.
The government has announced "the implementation of external threat" and directed all national defence plans to be implemented. It has also urged its citizens to take to the streets and "repudiate this external attack."
US authorities and the Defense Department did not publicly addressed inquiries for comment regarding the reports.
