Explosions and Low-Altitude Jets Witnessed in Venezuelan Capital Caracas
Reports emerged of several explosions and the noise of low-flying aircraft in Caracas in the small hours of Saturday morning. The situation has prompted claims from the Venezuelan government and requests for global action.
Venezuela Accuses United States of Aggression
The incumbent government has accused the United States of an act of "imperialist aggression," stating that former President Trump allegedly authorized strikes against the South American state. In an formal announcement, the authorities stated that attacks had targeted the capital and several other provinces: Miranda, La Guaira, and Aragua state.
"The primary goal of this aggression is to gain control of our nation's natural resources, especially its petroleum and mineral wealth," the government declared.
The government called on the global community to denounce the operations, which it labeled a "clear infringement of international norms" that placed numerous of lives in peril.
Accounts of Explosions and Defense Installations Hit
Residents spoke of hearing approximately seven powerful blasts around 2 a.m. local time. Citizens in various districts reportedly rushed into the streets.
"The earth trembled. This is horrible. We heard explosions and jets in the distance," said one local.
Plumes of smoke was observed billowing from major military installations in Caracas: the La Carlota air base and the Fuerte Tiuna military base, where president Maduro is reported to have a residence.
Global Condemnation
The leader of bordering Colombia, Gustavo Petro, claimed on social media that "Currently they are bombing Caracas... attacking it with rockets." He called for an immediate emergency meeting of the Security Council.
The Colombian government, which just joined the UNSC, stated it would activate defense measures at its border with its neighbor.
Preceding Events
The reported attacks come after a prolonged military buildup by the US against the Maduro regime. Since last summer, there has been a significant American military presence off Venezuela's Caribbean coast and a series of airstrikes on ships suspected of narco-trafficking.
Venezuela's government has announced "the implementation of emergency" and ordered all national defense protocols to be implemented. It has also called on its supporters to mobilize and "reject this external act."
American officials and the Defense Department did not promptly addressed requests for clarification regarding the allegations.
