Explosions and Low-Altitude Jets Reported in Venezuela's Capital Caracas
Accounts emerged of numerous explosions and the noise of low-altitude aircraft in the Venezuelan capital in the early hours of the weekend. This incident has prompted accusations from the Venezuelan leadership and requests for global intervention.
Venezuela Condemns US of Aggression
The authoritarian administration has blamed the US of what it calls "imperial aggression," alleging that ex- President Trump reportedly directed military strikes against the South American nation. In an official statement, the authorities confirmed that strikes had hit Caracas and three other states: Miranda, La Guaira state, and Aragua state.
"The only objective of these strikes is to take control of Venezuela's strategic resources, notably its crude oil and resources," the statement said.
Caracas urged the global community to condemn the operations, which it termed a "clear infringement of international norms" that endangered numerous of lives in jeopardy.
Accounts of Explosions and Defense Bases Hit
Residents reported feeling approximately seven powerful blasts around 2:00 AM in the morning. Citizens in different districts reportedly hurried into the streets outside.
"The whole ground shook. It was frightening. We heard blasts and jets in the sky," stated one resident.
Black smoke was observed billowing from two defense sites in Caracas: the La Carlota air base and the Fuerte Tiuna army base, where president Maduro is thought to have a residence.
International Response
The president of bordering Colombia, wrote on a social platform that "At this moment they are attacking Venezuela... attacking it with missiles." He requested an urgent emergency session of the UN Security Council.
The Colombian government, which just joined the UNSC, said it would activate defense measures at its border with its neighbor.
Preceding Events
The alleged strikes are preceded by a prolonged pressure campaign by the Trump administration against the Venezuelan regime. Beginning in August, there has been a major naval deployment off the country's Caribbean coast and a series of air strikes on ships accused of drug trafficking.
The government has declared "the implementation of external disturbance" and directed all national defense plans to be activated. It has also called on its citizens to take to the streets and "denounce this foreign attack."
American officials and the Pentagon did not immediately responded to requests for clarification regarding the events.
