Blasts and Low-Altitude Jets Reported in Venezuelan Capital Caracas
Witness testimonies emerged of numerous blasts and the noise of low-flying jets in Caracas in the early hours of Saturday. The situation has led to claims from the Venezuelan authorities and demands for diplomatic action.
Venezuela Blames United States of Military Action
The socialist government has blamed the US of what it calls "imperialist aggression," stating that former President Trump reportedly authorized attacks against the Latin American state. In an formal statement, the authorities asserted that attacks had impacted the capital and several other regions: Miranda state, La Guaira, and Aragua state.
"The sole aim of this aggression is to gain control of Venezuela's natural resources, especially its oil and minerals," the government said.
Caracas called on the global community to censure the operations, which it described a "blatant breach of global law" that put countless of lives at risk in peril.
Reports of Blasts and Military Bases Hit
Residents reported hearing at least seven detonations around 2:00 AM in the morning. Residents in several neighborhoods reportedly rushed into the streets.
"The earth trembled. This is terrifying. We experienced blasts and aircraft in the area," stated one local.
Smoke was observed pouring from two defense sites in Caracas: the La Carlota airfield and the Fuerte Tiuna compound, where leader Maduro is believed to have a residence.
Global Reaction
The president of neighboring Colombia, stated on X that "At this moment they are striking Venezuela... attacking it with missiles." He called for an swift meeting of the Security Council.
Colombia, which just became a member of the UNSC, stated it would activate security plans at its border with Venezuela.
Context
These reported attacks follow a extended pressure campaign by the US against the Maduro administration. Since August, authorities reported a major American military presence off the country's northern coast and a series of air strikes on ships linked to illegal activities.
Venezuela's administration has declared "the implementation of external threat" and directed all national defense plans to be implemented. It has also summoned its supporters to take to the streets and "repudiate this external aggression."
American officials and the Pentagon did not publicly commented on requests for comment regarding the reports.
