Explosions and Low-Altitude Jets Witnessed in Venezuelan Capital Caracas City
Accounts emerged of numerous explosions and the sound of low-flying jets in the Venezuelan capital in the early hours of the weekend. This event has prompted accusations from the Venezuelan authorities and calls for global scrutiny.
Caracas Condemns United States of Attack
Venezuela's incumbent regime has accused the US of an act of "imperial aggression," stating that former President Donald Trump reportedly directed military strikes against the South American nation. In an public declaration, the authorities confirmed that strikes had targeted the capital and three other provinces: Miranda state, La Guaira state, and Aragua.
"Our sole aim of this attack is to gain control of Venezuela's key assets, especially its oil and mineral wealth," the government said.
Venezuelan officials appealed to the global community to condemn the strikes, which it termed a "clear infringement of international law" that put countless of civilians in peril.
Reports of Blasts and Military Installations Targeted
Eyewitnesses described feeling approximately several powerful blasts around 2 a.m. local time. Citizens in various neighborhoods allegedly rushed into the streets outside.
"Everything shook. This is frightening. We experienced blasts and aircraft in the distance," commented one local.
Black smoke was observed billowing from key army bases in Caracas: the La Carlota airbase airfield and the Fuerte Tiuna compound, where president Maduro is thought to live.
Global Reaction
The president of neighboring Colombia, wrote on a social platform that "At this moment they are striking Caracas... bombing it with rockets." He demanded an swift emergency meeting of the Security Council.
The Colombian government, which just joined the UNSC, stated it would initiate security measures at its border with its neighbor.
Preceding Events
These reported attacks come after a extended campaign of pressure by the Trump administration against the Venezuelan regime. Since last summer, there has been a major US military presence off the country's Caribbean coast and a series of airstrikes on ships accused of drug trafficking.
Venezuela's administration has declared "the implementation of external threat" and ordered all defense measures to be activated. It has also summoned its citizens to mobilize and "reject this external act."
American officials and the Pentagon have not publicly commented on inquiries for a statement regarding the reports.
