Detonations and Low-Flying Jets Reported in Venezuelan Capital Caracas City
Reports circulated of numerous blasts and the roar of low-flying aircraft in Caracas in the early hours of the weekend. This incident has prompted accusations from Venezuela's leadership and requests for diplomatic intervention.
Caracas Condemns Washington of Military Action
The incumbent government has accused the Washington of an act of "imperial aggression," stating that ex- President Donald Trump reportedly directed attacks against the South American state. In an official announcement, the government confirmed that strikes had impacted the capital and three other provinces: Miranda, La Guaira, and Aragua state.
"Our primary goal of these strikes is to take control of Venezuela's key assets, in particular its petroleum and resources," Venezuela said.
Venezuelan officials called on the world to condemn the strikes, which it described a "blatant breach of international law" that endangered millions of lives in danger.
Reports of Blasts and Defense Installations Targeted
Locals reported feeling roughly several explosions around the middle of the night local time. People in different districts allegedly hurried into the streets outside.
"The earth trembled. This is horrible. We experienced blasts and planes in the area," stated one local.
Black smoke was seen rising from key military installations in Caracas: the La Carlota airbase airfield and the Fuerte Tiuna military base, where leader Maduro is thought to reside.
International Condemnation
The president of neighboring Colombia, wrote on social media that "Currently they are striking Venezuela... attacking it with projectiles." He demanded an urgent emergency session of the United Nations Security Council.
Colombia, which just became a member of the UNSC, announced it would activate defense measures at its border with Venezuela.
Preceding Events
The reported attacks come after a months-long military buildup by the US against the Venezuelan regime. Beginning in last summer, there has been a major naval buildup off Venezuela's northern coast and a series of strikes on boats accused of narco-trafficking.
The administration has stated "the implementation of emergency" and directed all national defense protocols to be activated. It has also called on its citizens to protest and "reject this foreign act."
American officials and the Defense Department have not promptly addressed inquiries for a statement regarding the events.
