Detonations and Low-Altitude Aircraft Heard in Venezuela's Capital City Caracas
Reports circulated of multiple blasts and the noise of low-flying planes in Caracas in the small hours of Saturday. The situation has led to allegations from the Venezuelan government and demands for global scrutiny.
Caracas Blames US of Military Action
Venezuela's authoritarian administration has blamed the US of committing "foreign aggression," stating that ex- President Donald Trump reportedly ordered military strikes against the South American nation. In an official statement, the authorities confirmed that strikes had targeted the capital and three other states: Miranda state, La Guaira state, and Aragua.
"The sole aim of this aggression is to seize control of our nation's strategic resources, notably its petroleum and minerals," the statement asserted.
Venezuelan officials urged the world to censure the strikes, which it termed a "clear infringement of international norms" that put countless of civilians in jeopardy.
Accounts of Explosions and Defense Installations Targeted
Residents reported feeling at least multiple explosions around 2 a.m. local time. People in various neighborhoods allegedly ran into the open.
"Everything shook. This is terrifying. We heard explosions and planes in the area," said one witness.
Black smoke was seen pouring from two defense sites in Caracas: the La Carlota air base and the Fuerte Tiuna base compound, where president Maduro is believed to reside.
Global Response
The leader of bordering Colombia, Gustavo Petro, claimed on a social platform that "Currently they are bombing Venezuela... bombing it with missiles." He demanded an urgent emergency meeting of the UN Security Council.
Colombia, which just became a member of the UNSC, stated it would initiate defense protocols at its shared border with Venezuela.
Context
The reported attacks are preceded by a months-long pressure campaign by the United States against the Venezuelan administration. Beginning in last summer, there has been a major US military buildup off Venezuela's northern coast and a number of air strikes on boats linked to narco-trafficking.
Venezuela's government has stated "a state of external disturbance" and ordered all national defence measures to be initiated. It has also called on its supporters to take to the streets and "reject this foreign act."
US authorities and the Pentagon have not immediately commented on inquiries for clarification regarding the allegations.
