Witness testimonies surfaced of numerous explosions and the noise of low-altitude jets in Caracas in the early hours of the weekend. This incident has sparked allegations from Venezuela's government and requests for international action.
Caracas Accuses Washington of Military Action
Venezuela's incumbent regime has accused the US of what it calls "imperial aggression," claiming that ex- President Donald Trump reportedly authorized strikes against the Latin American state. In an public announcement, the authorities stated that strikes had hit the capital and three other provinces: Miranda state, La Guaira state, and Aragua.
"Our only objective of this attack is to take control of our nation's strategic resources, especially its crude oil and mineral wealth," the government said.
The government appealed to the world to denounce the strikes, which it labeled a "flagrant violation of international law" that placed millions of lives at risk in danger.
Reports of Blasts and Defense Bases Targeted
Residents reported hearing at least seven detonations around 2 a.m. in the morning. Residents in several neighborhoods reportedly hurried into the streets.
"The earth trembled. This is frightening. We experienced blasts and aircraft in the sky," stated one local.
Smoke was seen pouring from major military installations in the city: the La Carlota military airfield and the Fuerte Tiuna compound, where president Nicolás Maduro is reported to have a residence.
International Response
The president of bordering Colombia, stated on social media that "At this moment they are striking Venezuela... bombing it with projectiles." He demanded an urgent meeting of the Security Council.
The Colombian government, which recently joined the Security Council, announced it would activate security measures at its border with its neighbor.
Preceding Events
These reported attacks follow a months-long campaign of pressure by the United States against the Venezuelan administration. Beginning in last summer, authorities reported a major naval buildup off the country's Caribbean coast and a series of air strikes on vessels accused of illegal activities.
The administration has announced "a state of external disturbance" and commanded all defense protocols to be initiated. It has also urged its political forces to take to the streets and "reject this foreign aggression."
The White House and the Pentagon have not publicly commented on requests for clarification regarding the reports.
