Detonations and Low-Altitude Jets Witnessed in Venezuela's Capital City Caracas
Accounts surfaced of numerous explosions and the roar of low-flying jets in the Venezuelan capital in the early hours of Saturday. The situation has sparked accusations from Venezuela's leadership and demands for global intervention.
Venezuela Blames US of Military Action
Venezuela's incumbent government has condemned the United States of an act of "imperialist aggression," claiming that ex- President Trump supposedly authorized attacks against the South American country. In an formal declaration, the government confirmed that attacks had targeted the capital and several other states: Miranda state, La Guaira, and Aragua state.
"The only objective of these strikes is to seize control of Venezuela's natural resources, in particular its petroleum and resources," the statement asserted.
The government appealed to the world to censure the actions, which it termed a "flagrant violation of international law" that put countless of civilians in danger.
Accounts of Explosions and Military Bases Hit
Eyewitnesses spoke of feeling roughly several explosions around 2 a.m. in the morning. Residents in various districts reportedly ran into the streets.
"Everything shook. It was terrifying. We heard explosions and planes in the area," said one local.
Plumes of smoke was observed billowing from major military installations in the city: the La Carlota military airfield and the Fuerte Tiuna base army base, where president Maduro is believed to have a residence.
Regional Reaction
The president of neighboring Colombia, Gustavo Petro, claimed on social media that "At this moment they are attacking Caracas... bombing it with missiles." He demanded an urgent emergency meeting of the UN Security Council.
The Colombian government, which recently became a member of the Security Council, stated it would activate security plans at its border with its neighbor.
Context
These alleged strikes follow a months-long pressure campaign by the US against the Maduro administration. Since last summer, authorities reported a major US military deployment off the country's Caribbean coast and a number of air strikes on vessels suspected of narco-trafficking.
Venezuela's administration has stated "a state of external disturbance" and ordered all national defense measures to be initiated. It has also urged its supporters to take to the streets and "denounce this imperialist attack."
The White House and the US Department of Defense have not promptly responded to inquiries for clarification regarding the events.
