Detonations and Low-Altitude Jets Reported in Venezuela's Capital City Caracas
Reports emerged of multiple explosions and the roar of low-altitude aircraft in the Venezuelan capital in the pre-dawn hours of Saturday morning. This incident has prompted accusations from Venezuela's government and requests for global intervention.
Venezuela Accuses United States of Attack
Venezuela's socialist regime has accused the US of what it calls "imperialist aggression," stating that former President Donald Trump supposedly authorized strikes against the South American state. In an official statement, the government confirmed that strikes had targeted Caracas and several other provinces: Miranda, La Guaira, and Aragua.
"The sole aim of this aggression is to gain control of Venezuela's natural resources, notably its oil and mineral wealth," the statement asserted.
Venezuelan officials urged the global community to denounce the strikes, which it labeled a "blatant breach of international law" that endangered numerous of lives at risk in jeopardy.
Reports of Explosions and Military Bases Targeted
Residents reported experiencing at least seven detonations around the middle of the night in the morning. Citizens in different neighborhoods reportedly ran into the streets outside.
"The earth trembled. This is frightening. We heard explosions and jets in the distance," commented one local.
Plumes of smoke was reported pouring from two military installations in Caracas: the La Carlota airfield and the Fuerte Tiuna compound, where president Maduro is reported to live.
International Condemnation
The leader of bordering Colombia, claimed on a social platform that "Currently they are attacking Venezuela... bombing it with rockets." He called for an immediate emergency session of the Security Council.
The Colombian government, which just became a member of the Security Council, stated it would initiate defense measures at its border with its neighbor.
Preceding Events
These alleged strikes are preceded by a prolonged campaign of pressure by the United States against the Maduro regime. Since last summer, there has been a substantial US military deployment off Venezuela's northern coast and a series of air strikes on boats accused of illegal activities.
The administration has stated "a state of emergency" and directed all national defense protocols to be initiated. It has also called on its political forces to protest and "denounce this external act."
US authorities and the Defense Department did not publicly responded to requests for clarification regarding the reports.
