Explosions and Low-Altitude Planes Reported in Venezuelan Capital Caracas City
Witness testimonies circulated of several explosions and the sound of low-flying aircraft in the Venezuelan capital in the early hours of Saturday. The situation has prompted accusations from Venezuela's authorities and calls for diplomatic intervention.
Venezuela Accuses United States of Aggression
Venezuela's authoritarian regime has condemned the United States of what it calls "imperial aggression," stating that ex- President Trump reportedly authorized military strikes against the South American state. In an official announcement, the government confirmed that strikes had impacted the capital and three other states: Miranda state, La Guaira state, and Aragua state.
"The sole aim of this attack is to seize control of Venezuela's natural resources, in particular its petroleum and mineral wealth," Venezuela asserted.
Venezuelan officials urged the world to censure the actions, which it labeled a "flagrant violation of global law" that placed numerous of civilians in jeopardy.
Reports of Explosions and Military Bases Hit
Locals described feeling at least several detonations around the middle of the night in the morning. Citizens in several districts reportedly hurried into the open.
"Everything shook. It was horrible. We experienced explosions and planes in the area," stated one local.
Plumes of smoke was observed rising from major military installations in the city: the La Carlota airfield and the Fuerte Tiuna base military base, where leader Maduro is reported to live.
International Condemnation
The president of neighboring Colombia, Gustavo Petro, wrote on social media that "Right now they are attacking Venezuela... bombing it with missiles." He called for an urgent meeting of the Security Council.
The Colombian government, which recently became a member of the Security Council, stated it would activate security plans at its border with its neighbor.
Background
The alleged strikes are preceded by a prolonged military buildup by the Trump administration against the Maduro government. Since August, there has been a substantial naval buildup off the country's Caribbean coast and a series of strikes on boats accused of illegal activities.
Venezuela's government has stated "a state of emergency" and directed all defense measures to be implemented. It has also called on its political forces to mobilize and "denounce this foreign aggression."
American officials and the Pentagon did not promptly responded to inquiries for clarification regarding the reports.
