Explosions and Low-Altitude Planes Reported in Venezuela's Capital Caracas
Reports emerged of several detonations and the roar of low-altitude planes in the Venezuelan capital in the small hours of the weekend. This event has prompted accusations from the Venezuelan leadership and demands for diplomatic action.
Venezuela Condemns United States of Attack
The authoritarian regime has accused the US of committing "foreign aggression," claiming that ex- President Donald Trump reportedly ordered strikes against the Latin American state. In an public declaration, the authorities confirmed that attacks had targeted the capital and three other states: Miranda, La Guaira state, and Aragua.
"The sole aim of this attack is to gain control of Venezuela's key assets, notably its petroleum and mineral wealth," the government asserted.
Venezuelan officials appealed to the international community to condemn the actions, which it described a "blatant breach of international law" that endangered numerous of lives at risk in jeopardy.
Accounts of Blasts and Defense Installations Targeted
Residents spoke of feeling at least multiple powerful blasts around the middle of the night in the morning. Citizens in several areas reportedly hurried into the streets outside.
"Everything shook. This is terrifying. We experienced blasts and planes in the area," commented one local.
Black smoke was reported pouring from key defense sites in Caracas: the La Carlota air base and the Fuerte Tiuna army base, where leader Maduro is believed to reside.
Global Reaction
The president of bordering Colombia, Gustavo Petro, wrote on a social platform that "Right now they are attacking Venezuela... attacking it with rockets." He requested an urgent meeting of the UN Security Council.
The Colombian government, which recently joined the UNSC, said it would initiate defense protocols at its border with Venezuela.
Preceding Events
These alleged attacks are preceded by a prolonged campaign of pressure by the Trump administration against the Maduro administration. Beginning in last summer, authorities reported a significant American military presence off Venezuela's Caribbean coast and a series of airstrikes on vessels suspected of illegal activities.
Venezuela's government has stated "the implementation of external threat" and commanded all national defence measures to be initiated. It has also called on its citizens to mobilize and "denounce this imperialist aggression."
The White House and the Defense Department did not publicly responded to requests for clarification regarding the allegations.
