Detonations and Low-Flying Jets Reported in Venezuelan Capital City Caracas
Witness testimonies circulated of several explosions and the sound of low-flying planes in the Venezuelan capital in the early hours of Saturday. The incident has led to claims from the Venezuelan government and demands for diplomatic scrutiny.
Caracas Accuses United States of Attack
The socialist regime has condemned the United States of committing "imperialist aggression," alleging that ex- President Trump reportedly authorized attacks against the Latin American country. In an formal announcement, the government stated that strikes had impacted Caracas and three other provinces: Miranda state, La Guaira state, and Aragua.
"Our sole aim of this aggression is to take control of Venezuela's natural resources, especially its crude oil and resources," the government declared.
Venezuelan officials urged the international community to censure the operations, which it described a "blatant breach of international norms" that put countless of lives at risk in jeopardy.
Accounts of Explosions and Defense Installations Hit
Eyewitnesses reported experiencing approximately several detonations around the middle of the night local time. People in different areas allegedly rushed into the streets outside.
"The earth trembled. This is frightening. We experienced blasts and aircraft in the area," said one local.
Smoke was reported rising from key military installations in Caracas: the La Carlota air base and the Fuerte Tiuna base compound, where leader Maduro is reported to reside.
International Condemnation
The president of neighboring Colombia, Gustavo Petro, claimed on social media that "Currently they are bombing Venezuela... attacking it with projectiles." He called for an urgent emergency session of the United Nations Security Council.
The Colombian government, which just joined the UNSC, said it would activate security measures at its shared border with its neighbor.
Preceding Events
These alleged strikes come after a extended campaign of pressure by the US against the Venezuelan administration. Since August, authorities reported a significant US military buildup off the country's Caribbean coast and a number of air strikes on vessels suspected of illegal activities.
Venezuela's administration has stated "the implementation of external disturbance" and commanded all national defence protocols to be initiated. It has also urged its political forces to take to the streets and "denounce this external act."
US authorities and the Pentagon have not publicly addressed inquiries for clarification regarding the events.
