Detonations and Low-Flying Jets Reported in Venezuela's Capital Caracas
Witness testimonies surfaced of several explosions and the noise of low-flying planes in the Venezuelan capital in the small hours of the weekend. This event has sparked claims from the Venezuelan government and requests for global action.
Venezuela Accuses US of Attack
The incumbent government has condemned the US of what it calls "imperialist aggression," stating that former President Donald Trump allegedly ordered military strikes against the South American nation. In an formal statement, the government asserted that attacks had impacted Caracas and several other states: Miranda, La Guaira state, and Aragua.
"The only objective of these strikes is to take control of our nation's strategic resources, especially its crude oil and resources," Venezuela declared.
Caracas urged the global community to censure the actions, which it termed a "flagrant violation of global law" that put millions of lives in jeopardy.
Reports of Blasts and Military Installations Hit
Eyewitnesses spoke of hearing at least seven powerful blasts around 2:00 AM in the morning. Citizens in different districts allegedly rushed into the open.
"The earth trembled. This is terrifying. We heard explosions and aircraft in the area," stated one resident.
Smoke was observed billowing from two military installations in the city: the La Carlota airbase airfield and the Fuerte Tiuna base army base, where leader Maduro is thought to have a residence.
Global Reaction
The president of neighboring Colombia, Gustavo Petro, stated on a social platform that "At this moment they are attacking Caracas... bombing it with missiles." He requested an immediate meeting of the Security Council.
The Colombian government, which just became a member of the UNSC, stated it would initiate operational protocols at its shared border with its neighbor.
Background
These reported attacks are preceded by a extended pressure campaign by the US against the Maduro government. Since last summer, there has been a significant naval buildup off Venezuela's northern coast and a number of air strikes on boats linked to drug trafficking.
Venezuela's government has declared "a state of external threat" and commanded all defense protocols to be implemented. It has also called on its citizens to take to the streets and "denounce this foreign aggression."
US authorities and the US Department of Defense did not immediately responded to requests for clarification regarding the events.
