Explosions and Low-Flying Aircraft Heard in Venezuelan Capital City Caracas
Reports circulated of several blasts and the noise of low-flying jets in Caracas in the early hours of Saturday. The incident has led to claims from the Venezuelan leadership and calls for global scrutiny.
Caracas Condemns United States of Aggression
The incumbent administration has blamed the Washington of what it calls "imperialist aggression," stating that ex- President Trump reportedly ordered military strikes against the Latin American nation. In an formal announcement, the government confirmed that attacks had impacted the capital and three other states: Miranda state, La Guaira state, and Aragua.
"The sole aim of this aggression is to take control of our nation's strategic resources, notably its oil and resources," the statement asserted.
Caracas called on the international community to condemn the actions, which it labeled a "clear infringement of international norms" that put numerous of lives in danger.
Accounts of Blasts and Military Sites Targeted
Residents described feeling at least several detonations around 2 a.m. in the morning. Citizens in several areas reportedly rushed into the streets.
"The earth trembled. It was frightening. We experienced blasts and aircraft in the area," commented one local.
Smoke was seen pouring from key military installations in Caracas: the La Carlota airbase military airfield and the Fuerte Tiuna base army base, where leader Nicolás Maduro is thought to have a residence.
International Reaction
The leader of neighboring Colombia, stated on X that "Right now they are striking Caracas... bombing it with projectiles." He called for an urgent meeting of the United Nations Security Council.
Colombia, which recently became a member of the Security Council, stated it would activate operational plans at its border with Venezuela.
Background
These alleged strikes come after a extended campaign of pressure by the United States against the Venezuelan government. Beginning in August, there has been a significant US military buildup off the country's Caribbean coast and a number of airstrikes on vessels linked to illegal activities.
The administration has declared "a state of external threat" and ordered all national defense protocols to be activated. It has also called on its political forces to mobilize and "reject this foreign act."
The White House and the Defense Department did not immediately commented on inquiries for a statement regarding the reports.
