Explosions and Low-Flying Jets Reported in Venezuela's Capital City Caracas City
Accounts surfaced of numerous detonations and the roar of low-flying aircraft in Caracas in the early hours of the weekend. The incident has led to allegations from Venezuela's authorities and requests for global intervention.
Venezuela Accuses Washington of Military Action
The incumbent administration has condemned the US of what it calls "foreign aggression," claiming that former President Trump allegedly authorized strikes against the Latin American nation. In an formal announcement, the authorities stated that strikes had impacted Caracas and three other provinces: Miranda state, La Guaira state, and Aragua.
"Our primary goal of these strikes is to seize control of our nation's natural resources, especially its petroleum and mineral wealth," Venezuela said.
The government appealed to the international community to condemn the strikes, which it described a "blatant breach of global law" that endangered millions of lives at risk in peril.
Reports of Explosions and Defense Installations Hit
Locals described experiencing at least seven explosions around 2:00 AM local time. People in various areas allegedly ran into the streets outside.
"Everything shook. This is frightening. We experienced blasts and planes in the area," stated one witness.
Smoke was seen billowing from two military installations in Caracas: the La Carlota airbase airfield and the Fuerte Tiuna base army base, where president Maduro is thought to reside.
International Reaction
The leader of bordering Colombia, Gustavo Petro, claimed on social media that "At this moment they are bombing Venezuela... bombing it with projectiles." He called for an urgent meeting of the UN Security Council.
The Colombian government, which just joined the UNSC, announced it would activate security plans at its shared border with Venezuela.
Background
These reported strikes are preceded by a prolonged military buildup by the US against the Venezuelan administration. Since last summer, there has been a substantial US military buildup off Venezuela's northern coast and a series of airstrikes on ships linked to illegal activities.
Venezuela's administration has announced "the implementation of external threat" and ordered all national defense plans to be implemented. It has also urged its citizens to mobilize and "repudiate this imperialist aggression."
American officials and the Defense Department have not promptly responded to inquiries for a statement regarding the reports.
