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

Accounts emerged of several detonations and the roar of low-altitude aircraft in the Venezuelan capital in the early hours of the weekend. The situation has sparked accusations from Venezuela's government and demands for diplomatic intervention.

Caracas Blames US of Aggression

Venezuela's incumbent administration has accused the Washington of committing "imperial aggression," stating that ex- President Donald Trump supposedly authorized military strikes against the South American country. In an formal statement, the government asserted that strikes had impacted the capital and several other regions: Miranda, La Guaira, and Aragua state.

"Our only objective of these strikes is to take control of our nation's strategic resources, in particular its petroleum and minerals," the statement asserted.

Venezuelan officials urged the world to condemn the actions, which it described a "flagrant violation of international law" that endangered numerous of lives at risk in peril.

Reports of Blasts and Defense Bases Targeted

Eyewitnesses spoke of experiencing approximately several powerful blasts around the middle of the night in the morning. Citizens in different neighborhoods reportedly rushed into the streets.

"The earth trembled. This is frightening. We experienced explosions and aircraft in the area," commented one local.

Smoke was reported billowing from two army bases in the city: the La Carlota air base and the Fuerte Tiuna military base, where leader Maduro is reported to have a residence.

Regional Condemnation

The leader of neighboring Colombia, Gustavo Petro, claimed on social media that "At this moment they are attacking Venezuela... bombing it with missiles." He requested an urgent meeting of the United Nations Security Council.

Colombia, which just became a member of the Security Council, announced it would initiate security measures at its shared border with its neighbor.

Preceding Events

These alleged strikes follow a prolonged military buildup by the Trump administration against the Venezuelan administration. Beginning in August, there has been a significant naval deployment off Venezuela's northern coast and a number of air strikes on vessels linked to illegal activities.

Venezuela's administration has declared "the implementation of external disturbance" and commanded all national defense plans to be implemented. It has also called on its political forces to protest and "denounce this foreign act."

American officials and the Pentagon did not publicly responded to requests for a statement regarding the allegations.