Blasts and Low-Altitude Planes Heard in Venezuela's Capital City Caracas
Reports circulated of numerous detonations and the roar of low-flying aircraft in Caracas in the early hours of Saturday morning. The situation has sparked allegations from Venezuela's leadership and requests for international intervention.
Venezuela Accuses Washington of Attack
The authoritarian government has blamed the Washington of committing "imperial aggression," alleging that ex- President Donald Trump reportedly authorized military strikes against the Latin American nation. In an formal announcement, the government stated that strikes had targeted the capital and three other states: Miranda state, La Guaira state, and Aragua.
"Our primary goal of these strikes is to gain control of our nation's natural resources, in particular its petroleum and mineral wealth," the government asserted.
Caracas appealed to the global community to condemn the operations, which it termed a "blatant breach of global law" that endangered millions of lives in danger.
Reports of Explosions and Defense Installations Targeted
Locals spoke of feeling at least several explosions around 2 a.m. in the morning. Residents in various neighborhoods reportedly hurried into the open.
"The earth trembled. It was frightening. We experienced explosions and jets in the area," stated one resident.
Black smoke was seen pouring from key military installations in the city: the La Carlota airbase air base and the Fuerte Tiuna base military base, where leader Nicolás Maduro is believed to have a residence.
International Condemnation
The president of neighboring Colombia, claimed on social media that "At this moment they are striking Venezuela... bombing it with rockets." He demanded an immediate emergency session of the Security Council.
The Colombian government, which recently joined the Security Council, stated it would activate defense protocols at its shared border with its neighbor.
Preceding Events
These reported strikes are preceded by a extended pressure campaign by the United States against the Venezuelan government. Beginning in August, authorities reported a significant US military buildup off the country's northern coast and a number of strikes on vessels linked to drug trafficking.
The government has declared "the implementation of external threat" and commanded all national defense plans to be implemented. It has also called on its political forces to mobilize and "denounce this external aggression."
The White House and the Pentagon have not immediately responded to inquiries for a statement regarding the allegations.
