Detonations and Low-Altitude Planes Heard in Venezuelan Capital City Caracas City
Accounts circulated of numerous explosions and the sound of low-altitude aircraft in Caracas in the pre-dawn hours of Saturday morning. This event has led to allegations from the Venezuelan authorities and requests for diplomatic intervention.
Venezuela Accuses United States of Military Action
Venezuela's incumbent regime has blamed the US of an act of "imperial aggression," claiming that former President Donald Trump allegedly ordered strikes against the Latin American state. In an formal declaration, the authorities asserted that attacks had targeted Caracas and several other provinces: Miranda state, La Guaira state, and Aragua state.
"Our primary goal of this aggression is to take control of our nation's strategic resources, especially its petroleum and minerals," Venezuela asserted.
Venezuelan officials urged the world to denounce the strikes, which it termed a "blatant breach of international law" that put countless of lives at risk in danger.
Accounts of Blasts and Military Installations Hit
Eyewitnesses reported experiencing roughly several explosions around the middle of the night in the morning. Residents in various areas reportedly ran into the open.
"The whole ground shook. It was frightening. We experienced blasts and jets in the sky," commented one resident.
Plumes of smoke was reported rising from major military installations in the city: the La Carlota military airfield and the Fuerte Tiuna compound, where leader Maduro is reported to live.
International Response
The leader of bordering Colombia, claimed on social media that "Currently they are striking Caracas... attacking it with missiles." He called for an swift meeting of the UN Security Council.
The Colombian government, which recently joined the UNSC, stated it would activate defense plans at its border with its neighbor.
Background
The reported strikes come after a months-long military buildup by the United States against the Maduro administration. Beginning in August, there has been a substantial American military deployment off the country's northern coast and a number of strikes on boats accused of illegal activities.
The administration has declared "a state of external threat" and directed all national defence measures to be implemented. It has also urged its supporters to protest and "reject this external attack."
The White House and the Pentagon have not publicly responded to inquiries for comment regarding the reports.
