Explosions and Low-Altitude Planes Reported in Venezuelan Capital Caracas City
Witness testimonies surfaced of multiple explosions and the noise of low-altitude planes in Caracas in the early hours of Saturday. This situation has sparked accusations from the Venezuelan government and demands for diplomatic action.
Venezuela Condemns Washington of Attack
The socialist government has blamed the Washington of committing "imperialist aggression," claiming that ex- President Trump supposedly ordered military strikes against the South American state. In an public announcement, the government asserted that attacks had targeted the capital and several other regions: Miranda, La Guaira state, and Aragua.
"The only objective of these strikes is to take control of Venezuela's natural resources, especially its oil and mineral wealth," Venezuela declared.
The government called on the international community to condemn the strikes, which it termed a "blatant breach of international norms" that endangered countless of civilians in peril.
Reports of Blasts and Defense Bases Targeted
Locals reported experiencing approximately several explosions around 2 a.m. local time. Citizens in different districts allegedly hurried into the streets outside.
"Everything shook. This is horrible. We experienced explosions and planes in the area," said one local.
Plumes of smoke was reported pouring from two defense sites in Caracas: the La Carlota airbase airfield and the Fuerte Tiuna compound, where leader Maduro is reported to reside.
International Reaction
The leader of neighboring Colombia, stated on X that "At this moment they are striking Caracas... bombing it with projectiles." He called for an urgent meeting of the UN Security Council.
The Colombian government, which recently became a member of the UNSC, stated it would initiate operational plans at its border with Venezuela.
Preceding Events
The alleged attacks follow a extended pressure campaign by the United States against the Maduro administration. Beginning in last summer, authorities reported a significant US military buildup off the country's northern coast and a series of airstrikes on ships linked to drug trafficking.
The government has stated "a state of emergency" and directed all national defence plans to be initiated. It has also urged its citizens to take to the streets and "repudiate this foreign attack."
The White House and the Pentagon have not immediately addressed inquiries for clarification regarding the events.
