Blasts and Low-Flying Planes Heard in Venezuelan Capital Caracas
Accounts circulated of several explosions and the roar of low-altitude planes in the Venezuelan capital in the pre-dawn hours of the weekend. The event has led to allegations from the Venezuelan authorities and demands for global intervention.
Venezuela Condemns US of Attack
The incumbent government has condemned the Washington of what it calls "imperial aggression," stating that former President Trump reportedly authorized strikes against the South American nation. In an official announcement, the government confirmed that attacks had impacted Caracas and several other provinces: Miranda state, La Guaira state, and Aragua.
"The sole aim of this attack is to take control of Venezuela's key assets, in particular its petroleum and minerals," Venezuela said.
Venezuelan officials appealed to the world to denounce the actions, which it labeled a "clear infringement of international law" that endangered millions of lives at risk in jeopardy.
Reports of Explosions and Military Bases Hit
Residents reported experiencing at least seven powerful blasts around 2 a.m. local time. Citizens in several neighborhoods reportedly hurried into the streets outside.
"Everything shook. It was horrible. We experienced explosions and jets in the sky," stated one resident.
Plumes of smoke was seen billowing from key military installations in Caracas: the La Carlota military airfield and the Fuerte Tiuna army base, where leader Nicolás Maduro is reported to live.
Regional Condemnation
The leader of bordering Colombia, Gustavo Petro, wrote on a social platform that "Right now they are striking Venezuela... attacking it with rockets." He called for an swift meeting of the Security Council.
The Colombian government, which just joined the UNSC, announced it would activate security plans at its shared border with its neighbor.
Preceding Events
These alleged strikes are preceded by a months-long military buildup by the US against the Venezuelan administration. Since last summer, there has been a significant naval buildup off the country's northern coast and a number of air strikes on vessels linked to drug trafficking.
The government has declared "a state of external threat" and directed all national defence protocols to be implemented. It has also urged its political forces to take to the streets and "denounce this imperialist attack."
American officials and the US Department of Defense have not immediately commented on requests for a statement regarding the events.
