Explosions and Low-Flying Planes Reported in Venezuela's Capital Caracas City
Reports emerged of several detonations and the sound of low-flying jets in Caracas in the early hours of the weekend. The event has sparked claims from the Venezuelan leadership and demands for diplomatic action.
Venezuela Accuses Washington of Attack
Venezuela's authoritarian government has condemned the US of committing "imperial aggression," alleging that ex- President Trump allegedly directed attacks against the Latin American country. In an formal announcement, the authorities stated that attacks had targeted Caracas and several other regions: Miranda, La Guaira state, and Aragua state.
"The only objective of this aggression is to gain control of Venezuela's strategic resources, notably its crude oil and resources," the statement asserted.
Venezuelan officials appealed to the global community to condemn the operations, which it termed a "flagrant violation of international norms" that endangered millions of civilians in jeopardy.
Accounts of Explosions and Military Sites Hit
Residents spoke of hearing at least multiple explosions around the middle of the night local time. People in different areas allegedly rushed into the streets.
"The whole ground shook. This is horrible. We heard explosions and jets in the distance," stated one local.
Black smoke was reported pouring from key military installations in the city: the La Carlota airbase airfield and the Fuerte Tiuna army base, where president Maduro is reported to live.
Global Condemnation
The president of bordering Colombia, Gustavo Petro, stated on social media that "Right now they are striking Venezuela... bombing it with rockets." He requested an urgent emergency meeting of the Security Council.
Colombia, which just joined the UNSC, announced it would initiate operational plans at its shared border with Venezuela.
Background
The reported strikes are preceded by a prolonged military buildup by the United States against the Maduro regime. Beginning in August, authorities reported a major naval deployment off the country's northern coast and a number of strikes on ships linked to drug trafficking.
Venezuela's government has stated "the implementation of external disturbance" and ordered all national defence protocols to be implemented. It has also urged its citizens to protest and "reject this external act."
American officials and the US Department of Defense did not promptly commented on requests for comment regarding the allegations.
