Detonations and Low-Altitude Jets Heard in Venezuela's Capital City Caracas City

Reports surfaced of multiple detonations and the sound of low-altitude planes in Caracas in the small hours of the weekend. This incident has prompted accusations from Venezuela's government and calls for global scrutiny.

Venezuela Blames United States of Military Action

Venezuela's incumbent government has accused the United States of an act of "imperial aggression," claiming that former President Trump allegedly authorized strikes against the Latin American state. In an formal announcement, the government stated that attacks had targeted Caracas and three other regions: Miranda state, La Guaira, and Aragua.

"The primary goal of this aggression is to seize control of Venezuela's natural resources, in particular its crude oil and mineral wealth," Venezuela declared.

Caracas urged the international community to condemn the strikes, which it described a "blatant breach of international norms" that placed countless of lives in peril.

Accounts of Explosions and Military Bases Targeted

Eyewitnesses spoke of feeling at least seven explosions around 2:00 AM local time. Citizens in various neighborhoods reportedly ran into the streets.

"The earth trembled. It was horrible. We experienced explosions and aircraft in the sky," said one resident.

Plumes of smoke was seen pouring from key military installations in Caracas: the La Carlota air base and the Fuerte Tiuna army base, where president Nicolás Maduro is thought to have a residence.

International Response

The president of bordering Colombia, wrote on X that "At this moment they are attacking Caracas... attacking it with missiles." He called for an urgent meeting of the United Nations Security Council.

The Colombian government, which recently joined the UNSC, announced it would initiate defense measures at its frontier with its neighbor.

Context

These reported strikes come after a months-long pressure campaign by the Trump administration against the Maduro administration. Beginning in last summer, there has been a significant naval buildup off the country's Caribbean coast and a series of air strikes on boats linked to illegal activities.

Venezuela's government has announced "a state of external threat" and commanded all national defence protocols to be activated. It has also called on its political forces to take to the streets and "reject this imperialist act."

US authorities and the US Department of Defense have not immediately responded to inquiries for a statement regarding the allegations.