Explosions and Low-Flying Planes Reported in Venezuelan Capital Caracas City
Accounts surfaced of multiple explosions and the roar of low-altitude aircraft in Caracas in the early hours of Saturday. This incident has led to claims from Venezuela's government and requests for global action.
Venezuela Accuses US of Military Action
The incumbent administration has condemned the US of an act of "foreign aggression," stating that ex- President Donald Trump reportedly authorized military strikes against the Latin American country. In an official statement, the government stated that attacks had impacted Caracas and three other states: Miranda state, La Guaira, and Aragua state.
"Our primary goal of this aggression is to gain control of our nation's strategic resources, notably its oil and mineral wealth," the government declared.
Venezuelan officials appealed to the world to denounce the actions, which it termed a "clear infringement of international norms" that put millions of civilians in danger.
Reports of Explosions and Military Bases Hit
Eyewitnesses reported hearing roughly seven explosions around 2:00 AM in the morning. Citizens in several districts allegedly ran into the streets outside.
"The whole ground shook. This is horrible. We heard explosions and aircraft in the distance," said one local.
Plumes of smoke was seen pouring from key military installations in the city: the La Carlota airbase military airfield and the Fuerte Tiuna compound, where president Maduro is reported to have a residence.
Global Reaction
The president of neighboring Colombia, Gustavo Petro, wrote on X that "At this moment they are bombing Venezuela... bombing it with rockets." He demanded an immediate meeting of the United Nations Security Council.
Colombia, which recently joined the UNSC, said it would initiate security measures at its border with Venezuela.
Context
The reported strikes come after a extended pressure campaign by the United States against the Maduro regime. Since August, there has been a major US military presence off the country's Caribbean coast and a series of strikes on vessels accused of illegal activities.
Venezuela's administration has declared "the implementation of emergency" and directed all national defence protocols to be implemented. It has also urged its supporters to protest and "denounce this foreign attack."
US authorities and the Defense Department have not immediately addressed inquiries for a statement regarding the allegations.
