Explosions and Low-Altitude Planes Reported in Venezuelan Capital City Caracas
Reports emerged of numerous blasts and the sound of low-altitude planes in Caracas in the small hours of the weekend. The situation has led to allegations from the Venezuelan government and calls for diplomatic intervention.
Venezuela Condemns Washington of Military Action
Venezuela's incumbent administration has condemned the US of what it calls "foreign aggression," claiming that former President Donald Trump supposedly ordered strikes against the Latin American nation. In an official declaration, the government confirmed that strikes had hit the capital and several other provinces: Miranda state, La Guaira state, and Aragua.
"Our primary goal of these strikes is to take control of Venezuela's key assets, notably its petroleum and minerals," the government declared.
The government urged the world to condemn the actions, which it termed a "blatant breach of international law" that placed countless of civilians in jeopardy.
Accounts of Explosions and Defense Installations Targeted
Locals described feeling approximately several detonations around 2 a.m. local time. Residents in several neighborhoods allegedly ran into the streets outside.
"Everything shook. This is terrifying. We experienced explosions and aircraft in the area," commented one local.
Smoke was seen rising from two army bases in Caracas: the La Carlota airfield and the Fuerte Tiuna compound, where leader Maduro is believed to live.
Regional Response
The leader of neighboring Colombia, wrote on X that "Currently they are bombing Venezuela... bombing it with missiles." He demanded an immediate emergency session of the Security Council.
The Colombian government, which just joined the UNSC, announced it would activate defense measures at its shared border with Venezuela.
Context
The reported strikes are preceded by a extended pressure campaign by the US against the Venezuelan government. Beginning in last summer, there has been a major American military buildup off the country's northern coast and a series of air strikes on ships linked to narco-trafficking.
Venezuela's administration has stated "a state of emergency" and commanded all defense protocols to be initiated. It has also summoned its citizens to protest and "repudiate this external aggression."
US authorities and the Pentagon did not publicly commented on inquiries for a statement regarding the allegations.
