Explosions and Low-Flying Jets Reported in Venezuela's Capital Caracas City
Witness testimonies surfaced of multiple explosions and the noise of low-flying planes in Caracas in the early hours of Saturday morning. The event has prompted allegations from Venezuela's government and requests for diplomatic intervention.
Caracas Accuses Washington of Military Action
Venezuela's socialist administration has accused the Washington of committing "imperial aggression," stating that former President Donald Trump supposedly ordered attacks against the South American state. In an official declaration, the government stated that strikes had impacted the capital and several other provinces: Miranda state, La Guaira, and Aragua.
"Our sole aim of this attack is to seize control of Venezuela's strategic resources, especially its petroleum and resources," the statement asserted.
The government urged the global community to condemn the actions, which it described a "blatant breach of international norms" that endangered countless of lives at risk in danger.
Accounts of Explosions and Military Installations Targeted
Locals reported hearing approximately multiple detonations around 2:00 AM local time. People in several districts allegedly rushed into the streets.
"The earth trembled. It was frightening. We heard explosions and planes in the distance," commented one resident.
Plumes of smoke was seen pouring from major army bases in the city: the La Carlota military airfield and the Fuerte Tiuna base compound, where leader Maduro is reported to live.
International Response
The leader of bordering Colombia, claimed on social media that "Right now they are attacking Caracas... attacking it with projectiles." He demanded an swift emergency meeting of the Security Council.
The Colombian government, which recently joined the UNSC, announced it would activate security plans at its border with Venezuela.
Background
The alleged strikes come after a extended pressure campaign by the US against the Venezuelan administration. Beginning in August, authorities reported a major American military deployment off the country's northern coast and a number of air strikes on vessels suspected of narco-trafficking.
The government has declared "a state of emergency" and directed all defense measures to be implemented. It has also summoned its supporters to mobilize and "denounce this foreign aggression."
The White House and the Defense Department have not promptly commented on inquiries for comment regarding the allegations.
