Blasts and Low-Altitude Planes Reported in Venezuelan Capital City Caracas
Witness testimonies emerged of multiple explosions and the roar of low-flying jets in Caracas in the early hours of the weekend. The situation has led to accusations from the Venezuelan government and demands for diplomatic intervention.
Venezuela Blames Washington of Military Action
The authoritarian administration has condemned the Washington of an act of "foreign aggression," claiming that former President Trump allegedly ordered strikes against the Latin American country. In an public declaration, the government stated that strikes had hit the capital and three other states: Miranda, La Guaira state, and Aragua state.
"The only objective of these strikes is to gain control of Venezuela's key assets, notably its crude oil and resources," the government asserted.
Venezuelan officials called on the international community to censure the actions, which it termed a "clear infringement of global law" that endangered countless of civilians in peril.
Reports of Blasts and Military Sites Hit
Locals reported feeling roughly multiple explosions around 2 a.m. local time. Citizens in various districts allegedly rushed into the streets outside.
"The whole ground shook. This is horrible. We heard explosions and jets in the distance," commented one local.
Smoke was seen rising from major army bases in the city: the La Carlota airbase air base and the Fuerte Tiuna army base, where president Nicolás Maduro is reported to reside.
Global Condemnation
The leader of neighboring Colombia, Gustavo Petro, stated on social media that "Currently they are striking Caracas... attacking it with projectiles." He called for an swift emergency session of the United Nations Security Council.
Colombia, which recently became a member of the Security Council, said it would activate security measures at its border with Venezuela.
Preceding Events
The alleged attacks follow a extended campaign of pressure by the United States against the Venezuelan administration. Beginning in August, there has been a substantial naval buildup off Venezuela's northern coast and a series of air strikes on boats suspected of drug trafficking.
The government has stated "a state of emergency" and ordered all defense measures to be activated. It has also summoned its citizens to mobilize and "repudiate this foreign attack."
US authorities and the US Department of Defense have not promptly responded to requests for clarification regarding the allegations.
