Detonations and Low-Flying Aircraft Reported in Venezuelan Capital Caracas
Witness testimonies surfaced of numerous detonations and the sound of low-flying aircraft in Caracas in the pre-dawn hours of the weekend. This situation has sparked claims from Venezuela's authorities and calls for global scrutiny.
Venezuela Blames Washington of Military Action
Venezuela's authoritarian government has condemned the United States of an act of "imperialist aggression," alleging that former President Trump reportedly authorized strikes against the South American country. In an formal declaration, the authorities asserted that strikes had hit Caracas and three other provinces: Miranda, La Guaira state, and Aragua.
"The primary goal of this attack is to take control of Venezuela's natural resources, in particular its crude oil and mineral wealth," Venezuela asserted.
The government urged the international community to denounce the strikes, which it described a "clear infringement of global law" that endangered numerous of lives at risk in danger.
Reports of Blasts and Military Bases Hit
Eyewitnesses spoke of feeling approximately seven powerful blasts around 2:00 AM local time. Residents in several districts reportedly rushed into the open.
"Everything shook. This is terrifying. We experienced blasts and jets in the sky," stated one witness.
Smoke was observed billowing from key army bases in the city: the La Carlota airfield and the Fuerte Tiuna base compound, where president Maduro is believed to have a residence.
Regional Condemnation
The president of neighboring Colombia, Gustavo Petro, claimed on a social platform that "Currently they are attacking Venezuela... attacking it with projectiles." He demanded an immediate meeting of the United Nations Security Council.
The Colombian government, which recently joined the UNSC, announced it would initiate defense measures at its frontier with Venezuela.
Context
The reported strikes follow a prolonged pressure campaign by the US against the Venezuelan government. Since last summer, there has been a substantial US military deployment off the country's northern coast and a number of air strikes on boats accused of narco-trafficking.
Venezuela's administration has announced "the implementation of emergency" and directed all national defence plans to be implemented. It has also called on its supporters to protest and "repudiate this imperialist act."
US authorities and the Pentagon have not promptly responded to requests for clarification regarding the reports.
