Blasts and Low-Flying Jets Heard in Venezuela's Capital City Caracas
Accounts circulated of numerous detonations and the noise of low-altitude planes in Caracas in the early hours of the weekend. The event has sparked allegations from the Venezuelan government and demands for diplomatic intervention.
Venezuela Accuses United States of Military Action
The incumbent regime has blamed the US of committing "imperialist aggression," claiming that ex- President Donald Trump allegedly authorized strikes against the Latin American state. In an formal statement, the authorities stated that strikes had targeted the capital and three other regions: Miranda state, La Guaira, and Aragua state.
"Our primary goal of this aggression is to take control of our nation's key assets, in particular its petroleum and minerals," the government asserted.
The government urged the world to censure the strikes, which it labeled a "blatant breach of international norms" that endangered countless of lives in danger.
Accounts of Blasts and Military Bases Hit
Residents reported feeling at least seven explosions around 2:00 AM local time. People in various districts reportedly ran into the streets.
"The earth trembled. This is frightening. We experienced explosions and aircraft in the sky," said one witness.
Black smoke was observed rising from major defense sites in Caracas: the La Carlota airbase military airfield and the Fuerte Tiuna compound, where leader Maduro is believed to have a residence.
Global Response
The leader of bordering Colombia, claimed on social media that "Currently they are striking Caracas... attacking it with missiles." He demanded an swift meeting of the United Nations Security Council.
Colombia, which recently joined the Security Council, stated it would activate security protocols at its shared border with Venezuela.
Background
These alleged attacks come after a prolonged pressure campaign by the United States against the Venezuelan regime. Beginning in last summer, authorities reported a significant naval presence off the country's Caribbean coast and a series of air strikes on vessels suspected of drug trafficking.
Venezuela's administration has stated "the implementation of external threat" and commanded all national defense protocols to be initiated. It has also summoned its political forces to protest and "repudiate this foreign aggression."
US authorities and the Defense Department did not immediately responded to inquiries for a statement regarding the events.
