Blasts and Low-Altitude Jets Witnessed in Venezuelan Capital Caracas City
Reports emerged of multiple explosions and the roar of low-altitude aircraft in the Venezuelan capital in the early hours of Saturday. The event has sparked accusations from the Venezuelan government and calls for global intervention.
Caracas Blames US of Aggression
The incumbent regime has accused the Washington of an act of "imperial aggression," stating that former President Donald Trump allegedly directed attacks against the South American nation. In an public announcement, the authorities asserted that attacks had targeted Caracas and several other states: Miranda state, La Guaira, and Aragua.
"Our only objective of this attack is to gain control of our nation's strategic resources, in particular its petroleum and resources," the government asserted.
Caracas appealed to the international community to denounce the actions, which it termed a "clear infringement of international norms" that placed numerous of lives at risk in peril.
Reports of Blasts and Military Sites Targeted
Eyewitnesses reported hearing at least seven powerful blasts around 2:00 AM local time. People in several neighborhoods allegedly rushed into the streets.
"The earth trembled. It was frightening. We experienced explosions and planes in the distance," stated one resident.
Black smoke was observed billowing from major military installations in Caracas: the La Carlota airfield and the Fuerte Tiuna compound, where president Nicolás Maduro is reported to reside.
International Condemnation
The leader of neighboring Colombia, Gustavo Petro, stated on X that "Currently they are attacking Venezuela... attacking it with missiles." He requested an swift meeting of the UN Security Council.
The Colombian government, which recently became a member of the UNSC, said it would initiate operational measures at its shared border with Venezuela.
Preceding Events
The reported strikes are preceded by a prolonged pressure campaign by the United States against the Venezuelan administration. Beginning in August, there has been a significant US military buildup off Venezuela's northern coast and a number of air strikes on boats linked to illegal activities.
The administration has declared "a state of emergency" and ordered all national defense plans to be activated. It has also urged its political forces to take to the streets and "reject this foreign aggression."
US authorities and the Pentagon did not publicly responded to requests for a statement regarding the events.