Explosions and Low-Flying Aircraft Heard in Venezuelan Capital Caracas City
Witness testimonies surfaced of numerous detonations and the sound of low-altitude planes in Caracas in the early hours of the weekend. This situation has prompted accusations from Venezuela's authorities and demands for global intervention.
Venezuela Condemns Washington of Military Action
Venezuela's authoritarian administration has accused the US of an act of "imperialist aggression," stating that ex- President Trump supposedly directed attacks against the Latin American country. In an official statement, the authorities confirmed that strikes had impacted the capital and several other regions: Miranda, La Guaira, and Aragua state.
"Our primary goal of this aggression is to take control of our nation's natural resources, especially its petroleum and resources," the statement said.
Caracas called on the world to condemn the operations, which it labeled a "blatant breach of international norms" that endangered millions of lives at risk in jeopardy.
Accounts of Explosions and Military Installations Targeted
Residents reported experiencing approximately seven explosions around 2:00 AM in the morning. Citizens in different neighborhoods allegedly rushed into the streets outside.
"Everything shook. It was terrifying. We heard explosions and aircraft in the distance," said one resident.
Black smoke was observed pouring from major army bases in the city: the La Carlota military airfield and the Fuerte Tiuna army base, where president Nicolás Maduro is thought to live.
Global Response
The leader of bordering Colombia, claimed on a social platform that "Right now they are attacking Venezuela... attacking it with projectiles." He requested an immediate emergency session of the UN Security Council.
Colombia, which just joined the Security Council, stated it would activate security plans at its shared border with Venezuela.
Background
The alleged strikes are preceded by a months-long pressure campaign by the Trump administration against the Maduro regime. Since August, authorities reported a substantial naval buildup off Venezuela's northern coast and a series of airstrikes on ships suspected of illegal activities.
The government has stated "a state of emergency" and ordered all national defense measures to be implemented. It has also called on its political forces to take to the streets and "reject this foreign aggression."
US authorities and the Pentagon did not promptly addressed inquiries for comment regarding the allegations.
