Explosions and Low-Altitude Planes Reported in Venezuelan Capital Caracas
Reports circulated of multiple explosions and the roar of low-flying aircraft in Caracas in the small hours of Saturday morning. This incident has prompted claims from Venezuela's authorities and requests for diplomatic action.
Venezuela Condemns United States of Attack
Venezuela's incumbent regime has accused the Washington of an act of "imperialist aggression," alleging that former President Donald Trump reportedly ordered military strikes against the Latin American nation. In an official announcement, the government asserted that attacks had hit Caracas and three other states: Miranda, La Guaira state, and Aragua.
"Our only objective of this attack is to seize control of Venezuela's natural resources, especially its petroleum and minerals," the government asserted.
Venezuelan officials urged the global community to censure the operations, which it termed a "blatant breach of global law" that put countless of lives at risk in danger.
Accounts of Blasts and Military Sites Targeted
Eyewitnesses described feeling roughly several explosions around 2:00 AM in the morning. Residents in different districts allegedly hurried into the streets.
"Everything shook. This is horrible. We experienced explosions and aircraft in the sky," said one local.
Plumes of smoke was observed rising from two defense sites in the city: the La Carlota airfield and the Fuerte Tiuna army base, where president Nicolás Maduro is believed to live.
Global Reaction
The leader of neighboring Colombia, stated on a social platform that "Right now they are striking Caracas... bombing it with projectiles." He requested an immediate emergency session of the UN Security Council.
Colombia, which just became a member of the UNSC, announced it would initiate defense protocols at its border with Venezuela.
Context
These alleged strikes come after a extended military buildup by the US against the Venezuelan regime. Beginning in August, there has been a significant naval presence off the country's Caribbean coast and a series of airstrikes on boats suspected of illegal activities.
The government has stated "the implementation of emergency" and ordered all defense measures to be implemented. It has also called on its political forces to take to the streets and "denounce this foreign attack."
The White House and the Pentagon have not immediately addressed inquiries for a statement regarding the allegations.
