Explosions and Low-Flying Aircraft Witnessed in Venezuela's Capital Caracas City

Reports surfaced of multiple blasts and the roar of low-altitude planes in the Venezuelan capital in the pre-dawn hours of the weekend. The situation has led to allegations from the Venezuelan government and demands for global action.

Venezuela Blames Washington of Attack

Venezuela's socialist administration has blamed the United States of committing "imperial aggression," stating that former President Donald Trump reportedly ordered military strikes against the South American nation. In an official announcement, the government asserted that strikes had targeted the capital and several other regions: Miranda state, La Guaira state, and Aragua state.

"The sole aim of these strikes is to seize control of our nation's key assets, especially its crude oil and mineral wealth," Venezuela declared.

Caracas appealed to the world to condemn the actions, which it labeled a "flagrant violation of international law" that endangered numerous of lives at risk in jeopardy.

Accounts of Explosions and Military Bases Targeted

Eyewitnesses described hearing approximately multiple explosions around the middle of the night in the morning. People in various neighborhoods reportedly hurried into the streets.

"Everything shook. It was terrifying. We heard blasts and aircraft in the sky," stated one local.

Plumes of smoke was observed pouring from key army bases in Caracas: the La Carlota airbase military airfield and the Fuerte Tiuna base army base, where president Maduro is reported to have a residence.

Regional Condemnation

The president of bordering Colombia, wrote on social media that "Right now they are attacking Caracas... attacking it with missiles." He requested an swift meeting of the Security Council.

Colombia, which recently became a member of the UNSC, announced it would initiate defense measures at its border with its neighbor.

Background

The alleged attacks follow a extended military buildup by the US against the Venezuelan government. Beginning in August, there has been a major naval deployment off the country's northern coast and a series of air strikes on boats accused of illegal activities.

The government has stated "the implementation of external threat" and commanded all national defense plans to be implemented. It has also called on its political forces to take to the streets and "reject this foreign attack."

American officials and the Defense Department did not publicly responded to inquiries for comment regarding the events.