Explosions and Low-Flying Planes Heard in Venezuelan Capital Caracas City
Accounts surfaced of several explosions and the roar of low-altitude aircraft in the Venezuelan capital in the early hours of the weekend. The situation has prompted allegations from Venezuela's government and calls for diplomatic intervention.
Caracas Condemns United States of Military Action
The authoritarian administration has blamed the United States of committing "imperial aggression," alleging that ex- President Donald Trump allegedly ordered attacks against the Latin American state. In an official announcement, the authorities confirmed that attacks had targeted the capital and several other states: Miranda state, La Guaira state, and Aragua state.
"The sole aim of this attack is to gain control of our nation's strategic resources, notably its petroleum and resources," the statement said.
Venezuelan officials called on the international community to denounce the operations, which it described a "clear infringement of international norms" that placed millions of civilians in danger.
Accounts of Explosions and Defense Installations Hit
Locals described hearing at least seven detonations around the middle of the night in the morning. Residents in several areas reportedly ran into the open.
"The whole ground shook. It was terrifying. We heard explosions and planes in the sky," said one local.
Black smoke was seen rising from two military installations in the city: the La Carlota military airfield and the Fuerte Tiuna base compound, where president Maduro is reported to have a residence.
Global Response
The president of neighboring Colombia, claimed on X that "Currently they are attacking Venezuela... attacking it with missiles." He called for an urgent emergency meeting of the Security Council.
The Colombian government, which just joined the UNSC, said it would activate operational protocols at its border with Venezuela.
Context
These reported attacks follow a extended pressure campaign by the Trump administration against the Maduro regime. Beginning in August, there has been a significant US military deployment off Venezuela's Caribbean coast and a number of strikes on boats suspected of drug trafficking.
Venezuela's government has declared "the implementation of emergency" and directed all national defence protocols to be implemented. It has also urged its political forces to mobilize and "reject this external attack."
The White House and the Defense Department did not promptly commented on inquiries for a statement regarding the events.
