Detonations and Low-Altitude Aircraft Heard in Venezuelan Capital Caracas
Witness testimonies surfaced of several explosions and the roar of low-flying planes in the Venezuelan capital in the early hours of Saturday. This situation has led to accusations from Venezuela's authorities and requests for global action.
Venezuela Condemns US of Aggression
The socialist administration has blamed the United States of what it calls "foreign aggression," stating that ex- President Trump supposedly directed military strikes against the Latin American nation. In an official declaration, the government confirmed that strikes had impacted the capital and several other provinces: Miranda, La Guaira, and Aragua state.
"The only objective of these strikes is to take control of our nation's natural resources, in particular its petroleum and minerals," the statement asserted.
Venezuelan officials urged the global community to condemn the operations, which it labeled a "blatant breach of international norms" that placed millions of lives at risk in jeopardy.
Accounts of Blasts and Military Installations Targeted
Locals spoke of experiencing approximately seven powerful blasts around the middle of the night local time. Citizens in various neighborhoods reportedly ran into the open.
"The earth trembled. It was frightening. We heard explosions and aircraft in the sky," stated one resident.
Black smoke was seen billowing from key army bases in Caracas: the La Carlota military airfield and the Fuerte Tiuna base army base, where president Maduro is reported to have a residence.
Regional Reaction
The leader of bordering Colombia, claimed on social media that "Currently they are striking Venezuela... attacking it with missiles." He requested an immediate emergency session of the Security Council.
Colombia, which recently joined the UNSC, announced it would activate security measures at its border with Venezuela.
Preceding Events
These reported strikes come after a months-long campaign of pressure by the United States against the Venezuelan government. Since last summer, there has been a significant US military deployment off the country's Caribbean coast and a number of strikes on boats suspected of narco-trafficking.
The administration has declared "the implementation of external disturbance" and directed all national defence protocols to be activated. It has also urged its political forces to mobilize and "denounce this imperialist act."
The White House and the US Department of Defense have not promptly addressed inquiries for comment regarding the events.
