Explosions and Low-Flying Jets Reported in Venezuelan Capital Caracas
Reports emerged of several explosions and the noise of low-flying planes in Caracas in the early hours of the weekend. This incident has sparked claims from Venezuela's government and demands for international action.
Venezuela Blames United States of Attack
Venezuela's incumbent administration has accused the US of what it calls "imperialist aggression," claiming that former President Donald Trump reportedly directed military strikes against the Latin American country. In an public announcement, the government asserted that strikes had targeted Caracas and several other states: Miranda state, La Guaira, and Aragua state.
"Our primary goal of these strikes is to gain control of Venezuela's key assets, especially its petroleum and resources," the statement said.
The government called on the global community to censure the operations, which it termed a "clear infringement of global law" that endangered countless of civilians in peril.
Accounts of Blasts and Military Installations Hit
Eyewitnesses described feeling at least multiple powerful blasts around 2 a.m. in the morning. Citizens in different neighborhoods allegedly hurried into the open.
"The earth trembled. This is frightening. We experienced blasts and planes in the sky," said one local.
Smoke was seen billowing from key defense sites in Caracas: the La Carlota airbase airfield and the Fuerte Tiuna base compound, where leader Nicolás Maduro is reported to have a residence.
Global Response
The leader of neighboring Colombia, claimed on social media that "At this moment they are striking Caracas... bombing it with projectiles." He demanded an urgent emergency session of the UN Security Council.
Colombia, which recently joined the UNSC, said it would initiate operational measures at its frontier with Venezuela.
Preceding Events
These reported attacks follow a prolonged campaign of pressure by the Trump administration against the Maduro government. Beginning in last summer, authorities reported a substantial naval presence off Venezuela's Caribbean coast and a number of airstrikes on boats accused of narco-trafficking.
Venezuela's administration has announced "the implementation of external threat" and directed all defense protocols to be activated. It has also summoned its supporters to take to the streets and "denounce this imperialist act."
American officials and the US Department of Defense did not promptly addressed requests for comment regarding the events.
