Blasts and Low-Altitude Planes Heard in Venezuela's Capital City Caracas City
Witness testimonies emerged of numerous blasts and the roar of low-flying jets in Caracas in the pre-dawn hours of the weekend. The situation has led to accusations from Venezuela's government and demands for global scrutiny.
Caracas Condemns US of Aggression
The socialist regime has accused the Washington of an act of "foreign aggression," stating that former President Donald Trump reportedly directed strikes against the Latin American nation. In an public declaration, the authorities asserted that strikes had hit the capital and three other states: Miranda state, La Guaira, and Aragua.
"The sole aim of these strikes is to take control of our nation's strategic resources, especially its petroleum and mineral wealth," the statement said.
Caracas called on the world to censure the actions, which it labeled a "clear infringement of global law" that put countless of lives at risk in danger.
Reports of Explosions and Defense Bases Targeted
Locals described feeling at least multiple explosions around 2 a.m. in the morning. Residents in different districts allegedly ran into the streets outside.
"The whole ground shook. This is terrifying. We experienced blasts and jets in the distance," commented one resident.
Black smoke was seen billowing from two defense sites in Caracas: the La Carlota airbase military airfield and the Fuerte Tiuna base military base, where president Maduro is reported to live.
International Reaction
The leader of bordering Colombia, Gustavo Petro, claimed on X that "Currently they are striking Venezuela... attacking it with missiles." He called for an immediate emergency session of the United Nations Security Council.
The Colombian government, which just became a member of the UNSC, announced it would initiate security protocols at its shared border with Venezuela.
Preceding Events
The alleged attacks come after a prolonged campaign of pressure by the Trump administration against the Venezuelan administration. Since August, authorities reported a substantial naval buildup off the country's Caribbean coast and a series of airstrikes on ships accused of drug trafficking.
Venezuela's government has stated "a state of external threat" and directed all national defence plans to be activated. It has also called on its citizens to protest and "reject this foreign act."
US authorities and the Pentagon have not promptly addressed requests for comment regarding the allegations.
