Blasts and Low-Flying Planes Reported in Venezuelan Capital Caracas City
Witness testimonies circulated of multiple blasts and the sound of low-altitude aircraft in the Venezuelan capital in the small hours of Saturday. This event has sparked claims from the Venezuelan government and demands for global scrutiny.
Caracas Blames United States of Military Action
Venezuela's incumbent regime has blamed the Washington of committing "imperialist aggression," claiming that ex- President Donald Trump reportedly ordered military strikes against the Latin American country. In an formal announcement, the government stated that attacks had targeted Caracas and three other regions: Miranda, La Guaira state, and Aragua state.
"The only objective of this attack is to gain control of our nation's key assets, especially its oil and resources," Venezuela asserted.
Venezuelan officials called on the international community to condemn the strikes, which it termed a "flagrant violation of international law" that placed numerous of civilians in danger.
Reports of Blasts and Defense Sites Hit
Residents reported feeling roughly seven explosions around 2 a.m. in the morning. Residents in different neighborhoods reportedly rushed into the open.
"Everything shook. It was terrifying. We experienced explosions and aircraft in the area," stated one witness.
Black smoke was seen pouring from key military installations in the city: the La Carlota military airfield and the Fuerte Tiuna base military base, where president Maduro is reported to have a residence.
Global Condemnation
The president of bordering Colombia, stated on X that "Currently they are striking Venezuela... attacking it with projectiles." He requested an immediate emergency session of the Security Council.
The Colombian government, which recently became a member of the Security Council, announced it would activate defense plans at its frontier with its neighbor.
Preceding Events
These reported strikes follow a prolonged campaign of pressure by the United States against the Venezuelan government. Beginning in last summer, authorities reported a significant naval presence off the country's northern coast and a number of air strikes on boats linked to narco-trafficking.
Venezuela's administration has announced "the implementation of external threat" and directed all national defence measures to be initiated. It has also summoned its citizens to mobilize and "denounce this external aggression."
American officials and the Pentagon have not immediately addressed requests for a statement regarding the reports.