Detonations and Low-Flying Planes Witnessed in Venezuelan Capital Caracas City
Accounts emerged of numerous detonations and the sound of low-altitude jets in the Venezuelan capital in the small hours of the weekend. This situation has led to claims from the Venezuelan authorities and demands for diplomatic intervention.
Caracas Condemns US of Aggression
The incumbent regime has condemned the US of what it calls "foreign aggression," alleging that ex- President Trump reportedly ordered attacks against the Latin American nation. In an official declaration, the government stated that attacks had impacted Caracas and several other states: Miranda, La Guaira, and Aragua state.
"Our only objective of this aggression is to take control of our nation's strategic resources, notably its oil and minerals," the government said.
Caracas called on the international community to denounce the strikes, which it labeled a "flagrant violation of international law" that endangered millions of lives at risk in peril.
Accounts of Blasts and Military Bases Hit
Locals reported hearing roughly seven powerful blasts around 2:00 AM in the morning. Citizens in various neighborhoods reportedly ran into the open.
"The whole ground shook. It was terrifying. We experienced blasts and aircraft in the area," said one local.
Black smoke was observed billowing from key military installations in the city: the La Carlota airfield and the Fuerte Tiuna compound, where president Nicolás Maduro is reported to have a residence.
Regional Response
The leader of neighboring Colombia, Gustavo Petro, wrote on X that "At this moment they are bombing Venezuela... bombing it with missiles." He called for an immediate meeting of the Security Council.
Colombia, which recently became a member of the Security Council, announced it would activate security protocols at its border with its neighbor.
Context
These alleged strikes are preceded by a months-long military buildup by the US against the Maduro government. Since last summer, authorities reported a significant US military buildup off Venezuela's Caribbean coast and a number of airstrikes on ships linked to illegal activities.
The administration has stated "the implementation of external disturbance" and commanded all defense measures to be implemented. It has also summoned its supporters to mobilize and "denounce this imperialist act."
US authorities and the US Department of Defense did not publicly addressed inquiries for clarification regarding the allegations.
