Explosions and Low-Flying Jets Reported in Venezuelan Capital Caracas
Accounts emerged of several explosions and the sound of low-altitude jets in Caracas in the pre-dawn hours of the weekend. This incident has led to claims from Venezuela's leadership and calls for international intervention.
Caracas Accuses Washington of Military Action
The socialist government has accused the US of committing "imperial aggression," alleging that ex- President Donald Trump supposedly authorized attacks against the Latin American state. In an official declaration, the government stated that strikes had targeted Caracas and three other regions: Miranda state, La Guaira state, and Aragua.
"The sole aim of this attack is to take control of our nation's key assets, especially its oil and mineral wealth," Venezuela said.
Venezuelan officials urged the global community to denounce the strikes, which it described a "flagrant violation of global law" that put millions of civilians in jeopardy.
Reports of Explosions and Military Sites Hit
Residents reported experiencing roughly multiple detonations around 2 a.m. in the morning. Citizens in various areas reportedly rushed into the streets.
"The earth trembled. It was horrible. We heard blasts and jets in the distance," stated one local.
Plumes of smoke was observed pouring from key army bases in the city: the La Carlota airbase air base and the Fuerte Tiuna military base, where president Maduro is believed to have a residence.
Global Condemnation
The president of bordering Colombia, wrote on social media that "Right now they are attacking Venezuela... attacking it with missiles." He demanded an immediate meeting of the United Nations Security Council.
Colombia, which recently became a member of the UNSC, said it would initiate defense measures at its shared border with Venezuela.
Context
These alleged strikes are preceded by a extended military buildup by the US against the Maduro government. Beginning in August, there has been a major US military presence off Venezuela's northern coast and a number of strikes on boats linked to drug trafficking.
Venezuela's government has announced "the implementation of emergency" and directed all national defense plans to be initiated. It has also urged its political forces to take to the streets and "repudiate this foreign aggression."
The White House and the US Department of Defense did not immediately responded to inquiries for comment regarding the allegations.
