Detonations and Low-Altitude Jets Witnessed in Venezuela's Capital City Caracas City
Accounts emerged of several blasts and the sound of low-flying aircraft in Caracas in the early hours of the weekend. This event has led to claims from Venezuela's leadership and demands for global action.
Venezuela Condemns United States of Aggression
Venezuela's authoritarian government has condemned the United States of what it calls "foreign aggression," claiming that ex- President Trump allegedly authorized military strikes against the Latin American nation. In an formal statement, the authorities stated that strikes had targeted the capital and several other regions: Miranda, La Guaira state, and Aragua state.
"Our only objective of this attack is to take control of Venezuela's natural resources, notably its petroleum and minerals," Venezuela declared.
Caracas called on the world to condemn the strikes, which it described a "flagrant violation of international law" that placed millions of civilians in jeopardy.
Accounts of Explosions and Defense Installations Targeted
Eyewitnesses spoke of experiencing at least multiple powerful blasts around 2 a.m. local time. People in different neighborhoods reportedly rushed into the open.
"The whole ground shook. This is frightening. We experienced explosions and jets in the area," commented one resident.
Black smoke was seen billowing from two military installations in the city: the La Carlota airbase military airfield and the Fuerte Tiuna compound, where leader Maduro is reported to have a residence.
Regional Condemnation
The president of bordering Colombia, Gustavo Petro, wrote on X that "Currently they are striking Venezuela... attacking it with rockets." He requested an immediate emergency meeting of the United Nations Security Council.
Colombia, which just joined the Security Council, announced it would initiate defense measures at its shared border with its neighbor.
Context
The alleged attacks follow a extended pressure campaign by the US against the Maduro government. Beginning in last summer, there has been a significant US military presence off Venezuela's northern coast and a number of airstrikes on boats linked to narco-trafficking.
Venezuela's administration has announced "a state of emergency" and ordered all national defence plans to be implemented. It has also called on its supporters to protest and "reject this foreign attack."
American officials and the Pentagon have not promptly addressed requests for a statement regarding the allegations.
