Explosions and Low-Altitude Aircraft Heard in Venezuela's Capital Caracas
Reports circulated of multiple explosions and the sound of low-flying aircraft in Caracas in the pre-dawn hours of Saturday. This situation has led to accusations from the Venezuelan government and demands for international action.
Venezuela Condemns US of Military Action
The socialist government has blamed the US of what it calls "imperial aggression," alleging that former President Donald Trump allegedly ordered attacks against the South American nation. In an formal declaration, the authorities confirmed that attacks had impacted Caracas and several other regions: Miranda, La Guaira state, and Aragua.
"Our sole aim of these strikes is to gain control of Venezuela's key assets, notably its crude oil and minerals," Venezuela declared.
Venezuelan officials urged the international community to condemn the operations, which it termed a "blatant breach of global law" that placed millions of civilians in peril.
Reports of Explosions and Military Bases Hit
Locals spoke of feeling at least several explosions around 2 a.m. in the morning. Residents in various districts allegedly ran into the streets.
"The earth trembled. This is frightening. We heard blasts and planes in the distance," commented one witness.
Black smoke was reported billowing from key military installations in Caracas: the La Carlota airbase air base and the Fuerte Tiuna compound, where leader Nicolás Maduro is believed to live.
International Response
The president of neighboring Colombia, stated on social media that "Currently they are striking Venezuela... bombing it with missiles." He called for an urgent emergency session of the UN Security Council.
Colombia, which recently became a member of the Security Council, said it would initiate operational measures at its frontier with Venezuela.
Background
These alleged attacks are preceded by a prolonged pressure campaign by the US against the Maduro administration. Since last summer, authorities reported a major naval buildup off Venezuela's northern coast and a series of airstrikes on ships suspected of drug trafficking.
The administration has announced "the implementation of emergency" and directed all defense protocols to be initiated. It has also called on its supporters to take to the streets and "repudiate this external attack."
American officials and the Defense Department have not publicly responded to requests for a statement regarding the allegations.
