Explosions and Low-Altitude Planes Witnessed in Venezuela's Capital City Caracas
Accounts surfaced of multiple blasts and the noise of low-altitude aircraft in the Venezuelan capital in the early hours of the weekend. The incident has led to accusations from Venezuela's leadership and demands for global scrutiny.
Caracas Condemns Washington of Military Action
The socialist administration has accused the United States of an act of "foreign aggression," claiming that former President Donald Trump reportedly directed attacks against the South American state. In an formal announcement, the government stated that strikes had impacted the capital and three other regions: Miranda state, La Guaira state, and Aragua.
"Our primary goal of these strikes is to gain control of Venezuela's natural resources, notably its oil and minerals," the government said.
Venezuelan officials urged the international community to condemn the operations, which it termed a "blatant breach of global law" that put millions of civilians in peril.
Reports of Blasts and Defense Installations Targeted
Eyewitnesses reported experiencing at least seven detonations around 2 a.m. in the morning. People in different districts allegedly rushed into the streets.
"The earth trembled. This is frightening. We experienced blasts and aircraft in the sky," stated one witness.
Smoke was seen billowing from key military installations in Caracas: the La Carlota military airfield and the Fuerte Tiuna army base, where leader Maduro is reported to reside.
Global Reaction
The president of bordering Colombia, wrote on social media that "Right now they are striking Venezuela... attacking it with missiles." He demanded an swift emergency session of the Security Council.
Colombia, which just joined the Security Council, stated it would activate operational protocols at its shared border with Venezuela.
Background
These alleged attacks are preceded by a extended pressure campaign by the Trump administration against the Venezuelan administration. Beginning in last summer, there has been a significant naval buildup off the country's Caribbean coast and a number of strikes on ships suspected of drug trafficking.
The administration has stated "the implementation of external threat" and commanded all defense measures to be initiated. It has also summoned its supporters to take to the streets and "reject this external aggression."
The White House and the Defense Department have not promptly responded to inquiries for clarification regarding the events.
