Explosions and Low-Altitude Jets Witnessed in Venezuela's Capital Caracas City
Witness testimonies circulated of several blasts and the sound of low-altitude planes in Caracas in the early hours of Saturday morning. The situation has prompted allegations from Venezuela's government and demands for global action.
Venezuela Accuses US of Aggression
Venezuela's authoritarian regime has blamed the Washington of committing "imperialist aggression," stating that ex- President Trump allegedly authorized strikes against the South American state. In an official declaration, the authorities stated that strikes had hit Caracas and several other states: Miranda state, La Guaira state, and Aragua state.
"Our primary goal of this attack is to gain control of our nation's natural resources, notably its petroleum and resources," Venezuela declared.
Venezuelan officials urged the international community to condemn the actions, which it described a "blatant breach of international norms" that endangered millions of lives at risk in danger.
Reports of Explosions and Military Sites Targeted
Locals reported feeling at least multiple detonations around the middle of the night local time. Citizens in various neighborhoods allegedly hurried into the streets outside.
"The earth trembled. It was terrifying. We experienced explosions and aircraft in the sky," commented one witness.
Black smoke was reported billowing from major army bases in the city: the La Carlota airfield and the Fuerte Tiuna base military base, where leader Nicolás Maduro is reported to live.
Global Condemnation
The president of neighboring Colombia, claimed on X that "At this moment they are bombing Caracas... bombing it with missiles." He requested an urgent emergency meeting of the UN Security Council.
The Colombian government, which recently became a member of the Security Council, announced it would activate security protocols at its shared border with Venezuela.
Context
These alleged strikes are preceded by a months-long military buildup by the US against the Venezuelan regime. Since last summer, there has been a significant naval buildup off Venezuela's northern coast and a series of airstrikes on ships accused of illegal activities.
The administration has declared "a state of external disturbance" and directed all national defence measures to be implemented. It has also called on its citizens to take to the streets and "repudiate this foreign act."
US authorities and the Pentagon have not immediately commented on requests for a statement regarding the reports.
