Detonations and Low-Altitude Aircraft Witnessed in Venezuela's Capital Caracas

Reports surfaced of multiple detonations and the roar of low-altitude jets in the Venezuelan capital in the small hours of the weekend. This event has led to claims from Venezuela's authorities and calls for diplomatic intervention.

Caracas Accuses US of Military Action

Venezuela's socialist administration has blamed the United States of an act of "imperial aggression," alleging that former President Donald Trump supposedly authorized attacks against the South American nation. In an public statement, the government confirmed that attacks had impacted the capital and several other regions: Miranda, La Guaira state, and Aragua state.

"The primary goal of these strikes is to take control of Venezuela's key assets, especially its petroleum and mineral wealth," the government asserted.

Caracas appealed to the international community to denounce the operations, which it described a "clear infringement of international law" that endangered numerous of civilians in peril.

Accounts of Blasts and Defense Sites Targeted

Residents described feeling roughly multiple detonations around 2 a.m. local time. People in several areas allegedly rushed into the open.

"The whole ground shook. It was frightening. We experienced explosions and planes in the sky," said one resident.

Smoke was reported rising from key defense sites in Caracas: the La Carlota airbase airfield and the Fuerte Tiuna base military base, where president Maduro is reported to reside.

Global Response

The leader of bordering Colombia, Gustavo Petro, stated on social media that "Right now they are striking Venezuela... bombing it with missiles." He demanded an immediate meeting of the Security Council.

The Colombian government, which recently became a member of the UNSC, announced it would initiate operational protocols at its shared border with its neighbor.

Background

These reported attacks follow a months-long military buildup by the United States against the Venezuelan government. Beginning in last summer, there has been a major naval buildup off Venezuela's Caribbean coast and a number of airstrikes on ships linked to drug trafficking.

Venezuela's government has announced "the implementation of external disturbance" and commanded all national defence plans to be implemented. It has also summoned its citizens to protest and "denounce this external attack."

American officials and the Pentagon have not immediately addressed inquiries for a statement regarding the events.