Detonations and Low-Altitude Planes Heard in Venezuela's Capital City Caracas
Witness testimonies surfaced of multiple explosions and the sound of low-altitude aircraft in Caracas in the early hours of Saturday. The event has prompted accusations from Venezuela's authorities and requests for diplomatic action.
Venezuela Accuses Washington of Aggression
The authoritarian administration has blamed the US of committing "imperialist aggression," stating that former President Donald Trump supposedly ordered attacks against the Latin American country. In an public announcement, the government asserted that strikes had hit the capital and three other regions: Miranda state, La Guaira, and Aragua.
"Our primary goal 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 world to censure the actions, which it described a "blatant breach of global law" that endangered numerous of civilians in danger.
Reports of Blasts and Military Sites Hit
Residents spoke of hearing at least several detonations around 2 a.m. local time. People in several neighborhoods reportedly rushed into the open.
"The whole ground shook. It was frightening. We experienced explosions and aircraft in the distance," stated one resident.
Smoke was observed pouring from two army bases in Caracas: the La Carlota airbase air base and the Fuerte Tiuna base compound, where president Maduro is thought to reside.
Global Condemnation
The president of bordering Colombia, stated on X that "Currently they are attacking Caracas... attacking it with projectiles." He called for an immediate emergency meeting of the Security Council.
The Colombian government, which recently became a member of the UNSC, said it would activate operational measures at its shared border with its neighbor.
Context
These reported attacks come after a extended pressure campaign by the United States against the Maduro government. Beginning in last summer, there has been a substantial naval buildup off the country's Caribbean coast and a number of strikes on ships suspected of illegal activities.
Venezuela's administration has stated "the implementation of external threat" and directed all defense plans to be activated. It has also urged its political forces to mobilize and "repudiate this imperialist aggression."
American officials and the Defense Department did not promptly commented on inquiries for a statement regarding the allegations.
