Detonations and Low-Flying Jets Reported in Venezuelan Capital City Caracas
Accounts surfaced of numerous detonations and the sound of low-flying aircraft in Caracas in the small hours of the weekend. This situation has led to claims from Venezuela's authorities and demands for international scrutiny.
Caracas Accuses Washington of Aggression
The incumbent regime has condemned the United States of what it calls "imperialist aggression," stating that ex- President Trump reportedly authorized attacks against the South American country. In an official announcement, the authorities stated that attacks had targeted Caracas and several other regions: Miranda state, La Guaira, and Aragua.
"The only objective of this aggression is to take control of our nation's key assets, notably its crude oil and resources," the government declared.
The government urged the world to condemn the strikes, which it termed a "flagrant violation of global law" that put numerous of lives at risk in danger.
Reports of Explosions and Military Installations Targeted
Locals described experiencing approximately several explosions around the middle of the night in the morning. Citizens in various neighborhoods allegedly ran into the streets.
"The earth trembled. It was terrifying. We experienced explosions and jets in the sky," stated one local.
Black smoke was observed rising from key army bases in Caracas: the La Carlota airbase air base and the Fuerte Tiuna compound, where leader Maduro is reported to have a residence.
International Condemnation
The leader of neighboring Colombia, stated on a social platform that "Right now they are bombing Venezuela... attacking it with rockets." He called for an urgent emergency meeting of the Security Council.
Colombia, which recently became a member of the UNSC, announced it would initiate operational measures at its frontier with Venezuela.
Context
The alleged strikes are preceded by a prolonged military buildup by the US against the Maduro regime. Since August, authorities reported a substantial US military presence off the country's Caribbean coast and a series of air strikes on ships accused of drug trafficking.
Venezuela's administration has declared "a state of external threat" and commanded all defense measures to be activated. It has also summoned its political forces to take to the streets and "reject this external attack."
American officials and the Defense Department have not immediately responded to inquiries for clarification regarding the allegations.
