Detonations and Low-Altitude Jets Reported in Venezuelan Capital Caracas City

Accounts circulated of several explosions and the roar of low-altitude aircraft in the Venezuelan capital in the early hours of the weekend. The event has prompted claims from the Venezuelan government and requests for international action.

Caracas Condemns Washington of Military Action

Venezuela's authoritarian government has blamed the US of what it calls "imperialist aggression," claiming that ex- President Donald Trump supposedly ordered military strikes against the South American nation. In an official declaration, the authorities stated that attacks had targeted the capital and three other states: Miranda state, La Guaira, and Aragua state.

"The primary goal of these strikes is to seize control of our nation's key assets, in particular its petroleum and resources," the statement declared.

Caracas called on the world to censure the operations, which it labeled a "blatant breach of international norms" that endangered millions of lives in danger.

Accounts of Explosions and Defense Installations Hit

Locals spoke of feeling roughly seven detonations around 2:00 AM in the morning. Citizens in various districts allegedly rushed into the open.

"Everything shook. This is horrible. We experienced explosions and planes in the area," commented one resident.

Black smoke was seen billowing from major defense sites in the city: the La Carlota airbase military airfield and the Fuerte Tiuna military base, where president Maduro is thought to have a residence.

Regional Condemnation

The leader of bordering Colombia, Gustavo Petro, wrote on a social platform that "At this moment they are striking Caracas... bombing it with rockets." He demanded an swift emergency session of the United Nations Security Council.

The Colombian government, which just became a member of the UNSC, said it would activate operational measures at its border with its neighbor.

Preceding Events

The reported strikes follow a months-long pressure campaign by the US against the Maduro regime. Since last summer, authorities reported a significant American military presence off the country's northern coast and a series of air strikes on vessels accused of illegal activities.

Venezuela's administration has stated "the implementation of emergency" and ordered all defense protocols to be activated. It has also urged its citizens to protest and "reject this foreign aggression."

The White House and the Pentagon have not publicly responded to inquiries for a statement regarding the reports.