Accounts emerged of several blasts and the roar of low-altitude jets in Caracas in the pre-dawn hours of the weekend. This event has sparked claims from the Venezuelan authorities and demands for diplomatic intervention.
Venezuela's authoritarian government has condemned the US of committing "imperialist aggression," stating that ex- President Donald Trump reportedly authorized attacks against the Latin American country. In an formal declaration, the government asserted that attacks had impacted Caracas and three other provinces: Miranda state, La Guaira, and Aragua state.
"The only objective of this aggression is to take control of our nation's natural resources, in particular its petroleum and minerals," the government declared.
Caracas urged the international community to denounce the strikes, which it described a "blatant breach of international law" that put numerous of lives at risk in danger.
Eyewitnesses described feeling at least several powerful blasts around 2:00 AM local time. People in different areas allegedly hurried into the streets outside.
"The earth trembled. This is horrible. We experienced explosions and aircraft in the distance," commented one resident.
Smoke was reported billowing from major military installations in Caracas: the La Carlota military airfield and the Fuerte Tiuna compound, where leader Maduro is believed to reside.
The president of neighboring Colombia, wrote on social media that "Currently they are bombing Caracas... attacking it with projectiles." He demanded an immediate emergency meeting of the United Nations Security Council.
Colombia, which recently became a member of the UNSC, said it would activate operational measures at its border with Venezuela.
These alleged strikes come after a extended pressure campaign by the United States against the Venezuelan government. Beginning in August, authorities reported a substantial naval buildup off Venezuela's northern coast and a series of airstrikes on ships accused of illegal activities.
Venezuela's government has declared "the implementation of external disturbance" and commanded all national defence measures to be initiated. It has also called on its supporters to mobilize and "denounce this external aggression."
US authorities and the US Department of Defense did not immediately commented on requests for clarification regarding the reports.
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