Explosions and Low-Altitude Aircraft Heard in Venezuelan Capital Caracas
Accounts emerged of multiple explosions and the noise of low-flying planes in the Venezuelan capital in the small hours of Saturday. The incident has prompted accusations from the Venezuelan government and demands for diplomatic scrutiny.
Caracas Accuses US of Attack
The socialist administration has condemned the Washington of committing "imperial aggression," claiming that ex- President Trump reportedly ordered attacks against the South American state. In an formal declaration, the government stated that attacks had hit the capital and three other states: Miranda, La Guaira, and Aragua.
"The sole aim of these strikes is to seize control of our nation's strategic resources, notably its crude oil and mineral wealth," Venezuela declared.
The government appealed to the world to denounce the actions, which it termed a "clear infringement of global law" that placed millions of lives at risk in peril.
Accounts of Explosions and Military Bases Targeted
Locals spoke of feeling at least seven detonations around 2:00 AM in the morning. Citizens in different districts reportedly ran into the streets outside.
"Everything shook. It was horrible. We heard explosions and planes in the area," said one witness.
Plumes of smoke was reported rising from two defense sites in the city: the La Carlota airbase military airfield and the Fuerte Tiuna base army base, where president Maduro is thought to reside.
Regional Reaction
The leader of bordering Colombia, stated on a social platform that "Right now they are attacking Venezuela... bombing it with projectiles." He requested an urgent emergency meeting of the Security Council.
The Colombian government, which recently joined the Security Council, announced it would activate security plans at its border with Venezuela.
Preceding Events
These alleged strikes are preceded by a extended military buildup by the US against the Maduro government. Beginning in August, there has been a substantial naval presence off the country's northern coast and a number of air strikes on boats suspected of narco-trafficking.
Venezuela's government has declared "a state of external threat" and directed all national defence plans to be implemented. It has also summoned its supporters to take to the streets and "repudiate this imperialist act."
The White House and the Defense Department have not publicly responded to requests for clarification regarding the allegations.
