Explosions and Low-Altitude Jets Witnessed in Venezuela's Capital Caracas
Reports circulated of several blasts and the sound of low-flying planes in Caracas in the pre-dawn hours of Saturday. This incident has prompted accusations from the Venezuelan government and calls for international action.
Caracas Accuses United States of Attack
Venezuela's authoritarian regime has accused the Washington of an act of "imperial aggression," alleging that former President Trump allegedly directed attacks against the South American nation. In an public declaration, the government stated that attacks had targeted Caracas and several other states: Miranda state, La Guaira state, and Aragua.
"The primary goal of this attack is to seize control of our nation's strategic resources, especially its petroleum and resources," the statement asserted.
Venezuelan officials appealed to the world to condemn the actions, which it described a "clear infringement of global law" that endangered numerous of civilians in jeopardy.
Accounts of Blasts and Defense Installations Hit
Eyewitnesses described feeling approximately several powerful blasts around 2 a.m. in the morning. People in several neighborhoods reportedly hurried into the open.
"The whole ground shook. This is terrifying. We experienced blasts and planes in the distance," stated one local.
Black smoke was observed pouring from two defense sites in Caracas: the La Carlota military airfield and the Fuerte Tiuna army base, where president Maduro is believed to reside.
Global Condemnation
The leader of bordering Colombia, Gustavo Petro, stated on X that "Right now they are striking Venezuela... bombing it with rockets." He demanded an immediate emergency meeting of the United Nations Security Council.
The Colombian government, which just became a member of the Security Council, stated it would activate operational plans at its border with its neighbor.
Context
The reported strikes are preceded by a prolonged pressure campaign by the Trump administration against the Maduro government. Beginning in August, authorities reported a significant US military deployment off Venezuela's Caribbean coast and a series of airstrikes on ships linked to drug trafficking.
The administration has declared "a state of external disturbance" and ordered all defense measures to be initiated. It has also called on its political forces to take to the streets and "reject this external aggression."
US authorities and the Pentagon have not publicly addressed inquiries for comment regarding the events.
