Explosions and Low-Flying Aircraft Reported in Venezuela's Capital Caracas City
Accounts surfaced of multiple blasts and the roar of low-altitude jets in Caracas in the pre-dawn hours of Saturday. This incident has prompted accusations from the Venezuelan leadership and demands for diplomatic scrutiny.
Caracas Accuses United States of Aggression
The incumbent administration has accused the US of committing "imperial aggression," stating that former President Donald Trump reportedly authorized military strikes against the South American state. In an formal announcement, the government confirmed that attacks had hit the capital and three other provinces: Miranda state, La Guaira, and Aragua state.
"The sole aim of this aggression is to take control of Venezuela's natural resources, notably its petroleum and mineral wealth," Venezuela said.
The government called on the world to censure the operations, which it termed a "clear infringement of international law" that endangered millions of civilians in jeopardy.
Accounts of Blasts and Military Sites Targeted
Residents described experiencing at least several explosions around 2 a.m. in the morning. Citizens in different neighborhoods reportedly ran into the streets outside.
"The whole ground shook. It was horrible. We heard blasts and planes in the area," said one local.
Black smoke was seen billowing from major army bases in the city: the La Carlota airbase military airfield and the Fuerte Tiuna compound, where leader Maduro is believed to have a residence.
International Response
The leader of neighboring Colombia, wrote on social media that "Currently they are attacking Caracas... bombing it with missiles." He requested an urgent emergency meeting of the Security Council.
The Colombian government, which just joined the UNSC, said it would initiate operational plans at its frontier with Venezuela.
Context
The alleged attacks come after a months-long military buildup by the Trump administration against the Venezuelan government. Since last summer, authorities reported a substantial American military deployment off Venezuela's northern coast and a series of airstrikes on boats linked to illegal activities.
Venezuela's government has stated "a state of external threat" and directed all national defense protocols to be initiated. It has also summoned its citizens to protest and "denounce this external attack."
The White House and the Defense Department have not promptly commented on inquiries for a statement regarding the events.
