Detonations and Low-Altitude Aircraft Witnessed in Venezuela's Capital City Caracas City
Witness testimonies circulated of multiple detonations and the sound of low-altitude aircraft in the Venezuelan capital in the pre-dawn hours of Saturday. This incident has led to allegations from Venezuela's authorities and requests for global intervention.
Caracas Accuses United States of Military Action
Venezuela's incumbent administration has blamed the US of an act of "imperial aggression," stating that ex- President Donald Trump reportedly directed attacks against the Latin American nation. In an formal declaration, the authorities stated that strikes had hit Caracas and several other regions: Miranda state, La Guaira, and Aragua.
"The sole aim of this attack is to seize control of Venezuela's natural resources, especially its crude oil and mineral wealth," the government said.
Venezuelan officials appealed to the global community to condemn the operations, which it termed a "blatant breach of global law" that placed countless of civilians in danger.
Reports of Explosions and Military Installations Hit
Residents described experiencing approximately several powerful blasts around 2 a.m. local time. People in various districts allegedly rushed into the open.
"The whole ground shook. This is terrifying. We heard blasts and aircraft in the sky," commented one resident.
Smoke was reported billowing from major military installations in the city: the La Carlota airfield and the Fuerte Tiuna compound, where leader Maduro is believed to reside.
International Reaction
The leader of bordering Colombia, Gustavo Petro, claimed on a social platform that "Right now they are striking Venezuela... attacking it with rockets." He demanded an immediate emergency session of the UN Security Council.
The Colombian government, which recently joined the UNSC, said it would initiate operational measures at its shared border with Venezuela.
Preceding Events
These reported attacks come after a months-long pressure campaign by the US against the Venezuelan administration. Beginning in August, authorities reported a substantial naval presence off the country's Caribbean coast and a number of airstrikes on boats linked to illegal activities.
Venezuela's administration has stated "the implementation of external threat" and directed all national defense measures to be implemented. It has also called on its citizens to mobilize and "reject this imperialist act."
US authorities and the US Department of Defense have not promptly responded to inquiries for a statement regarding the events.