Detonations and Low-Flying Aircraft Witnessed in Venezuelan Capital City Caracas
Accounts emerged of numerous explosions and the roar of low-altitude aircraft in the Venezuelan capital in the pre-dawn hours of Saturday. The incident has led to claims from Venezuela's leadership and demands for international action.
Caracas Blames US of Military Action
Venezuela's authoritarian regime has accused the United States of what it calls "imperial aggression," stating that ex- President Donald Trump reportedly ordered strikes against the South American nation. In an public declaration, the authorities stated that attacks had hit the capital and three other provinces: Miranda state, La Guaira state, and Aragua state.
"The primary goal of this attack is to seize control of Venezuela's natural resources, especially its crude oil and mineral wealth," the statement asserted.
Venezuelan officials urged the global community to denounce the actions, which it termed a "blatant breach of international norms" that endangered numerous of lives at risk in danger.
Accounts of Blasts and Military Installations Hit
Eyewitnesses reported feeling approximately seven detonations around 2 a.m. in the morning. People in several districts allegedly ran into the open.
"The earth trembled. It was terrifying. We experienced explosions and planes in the area," commented one local.
Smoke was reported rising from major military installations in the city: the La Carlota air base and the Fuerte Tiuna army base, where president Maduro is believed to reside.
International Reaction
The president of neighboring Colombia, claimed on a social platform that "Right now they are striking Caracas... bombing it with rockets." He called for an urgent emergency meeting of the United Nations Security Council.
The Colombian government, which recently joined the UNSC, announced it would activate defense measures at its shared border with its neighbor.
Preceding Events
These alleged attacks come after a extended campaign of pressure by the US against the Maduro administration. Since August, authorities reported a substantial naval deployment off the country's northern coast and a series of strikes on ships accused of illegal activities.
Venezuela's administration has announced "the implementation of emergency" and directed all national defense measures to be activated. It has also called on its supporters to mobilize and "reject this imperialist act."
The White House and the US Department of Defense did not immediately addressed requests for a statement regarding the events.
