Explosions and Low-Flying Aircraft Heard in Venezuelan Capital Caracas
Witness testimonies emerged of several explosions and the noise of low-altitude jets in the Venezuelan capital in the early hours of the weekend. This situation has led to accusations from the Venezuelan authorities and demands for international action.
Caracas Condemns US of Attack
Venezuela's incumbent administration has condemned the Washington of committing "foreign aggression," alleging that former President Trump reportedly authorized military strikes against the South American nation. In an formal statement, the authorities confirmed that attacks had hit Caracas and three other provinces: Miranda state, La Guaira, and Aragua.
"Our only objective of these strikes is to gain control of Venezuela's key assets, in particular its petroleum and mineral wealth," Venezuela said.
Venezuelan officials appealed to the international community to denounce the actions, which it labeled a "clear infringement of international norms" that placed millions of lives at risk in jeopardy.
Accounts of Explosions and Defense Sites Targeted
Residents reported feeling at least seven explosions around 2:00 AM local time. Citizens in various areas allegedly rushed into the streets outside.
"The whole ground shook. This is frightening. We experienced explosions and planes in the sky," commented one local.
Plumes of smoke was seen pouring from two army bases in the city: the La Carlota airbase military airfield and the Fuerte Tiuna compound, where president Maduro is thought to have a residence.
Regional Response
The president of neighboring Colombia, stated on social media that "At this moment they are striking Venezuela... attacking it with projectiles." He demanded an urgent emergency session of the United Nations Security Council.
The Colombian government, which recently became a member of the UNSC, announced it would initiate operational protocols at its frontier with Venezuela.
Context
These alleged attacks are preceded by a extended campaign of pressure by the Trump administration against the Maduro government. Beginning in August, authorities reported a major US military presence off Venezuela's northern coast and a series of airstrikes on ships suspected of drug trafficking.
Venezuela's administration has stated "the implementation of external disturbance" and commanded all national defence plans to be initiated. It has also summoned its supporters to protest and "denounce this foreign aggression."
The White House and the Pentagon have not immediately commented on requests for comment regarding the reports.
