Detonations and Low-Altitude Jets Heard in Venezuela's Capital Caracas City
Reports emerged of numerous detonations and the roar of low-flying aircraft in the Venezuelan capital in the pre-dawn hours of the weekend. The event has prompted claims from Venezuela's authorities and demands for international scrutiny.
Venezuela Accuses Washington of Military Action
Venezuela's incumbent regime has accused the Washington of committing "imperialist aggression," alleging that former President Trump allegedly authorized military strikes against the South American state. In an formal statement, the authorities stated that strikes had hit the capital and several other regions: Miranda state, La Guaira state, and Aragua state.
"Our primary goal of this aggression is to seize control of Venezuela's natural resources, in particular its petroleum and mineral wealth," the statement declared.
Caracas appealed to the world to censure the strikes, which it termed a "flagrant violation of international law" that placed countless of lives at risk in jeopardy.
Reports of Explosions and Defense Sites Targeted
Locals reported hearing roughly multiple explosions around 2 a.m. in the morning. People in different districts reportedly ran into the streets outside.
"The earth trembled. This is terrifying. We experienced blasts and planes in the area," said one local.
Plumes of smoke was seen pouring from key military installations in the city: the La Carlota airbase airfield and the Fuerte Tiuna army base, where president Maduro is thought to have a residence.
Global Response
The president of bordering Colombia, claimed on X that "Currently they are attacking Caracas... attacking it with projectiles." He demanded an immediate emergency meeting of the United Nations Security Council.
Colombia, which recently joined the UNSC, said it would activate security measures at its shared border with its neighbor.
Background
These alleged strikes follow a months-long military buildup by the US against the Maduro regime. Beginning in August, authorities reported a significant US military presence off Venezuela's northern coast and a number of airstrikes on boats suspected of narco-trafficking.
Venezuela's administration has announced "a state of external disturbance" and commanded all national defense measures to be activated. It has also called on its citizens to take to the streets and "reject this imperialist act."
The White House and the Defense Department have not publicly commented on requests for a statement regarding the reports.
