Detonations and Low-Flying Aircraft Heard in Venezuelan Capital City Caracas
Accounts circulated of multiple detonations and the sound of low-altitude jets in Caracas in the small hours of the weekend. The situation has sparked accusations from the Venezuelan authorities and requests for diplomatic scrutiny.
Venezuela Condemns Washington of Attack
Venezuela's incumbent government has accused the Washington of what it calls "imperialist aggression," claiming that ex- President Donald Trump supposedly ordered attacks against the South American nation. In an formal announcement, the government confirmed that attacks had targeted Caracas and three other states: Miranda state, La Guaira state, and Aragua.
"The only objective of this aggression is to seize control of our nation's key assets, in particular its petroleum and resources," Venezuela said.
Venezuelan officials appealed to the international community to censure the operations, which it termed a "clear infringement of international norms" that endangered countless of lives at risk in danger.
Reports of Explosions and Defense Bases Targeted
Locals described experiencing approximately seven explosions around 2 a.m. local time. People in different districts reportedly rushed into the streets.
"The whole ground shook. It was frightening. We experienced explosions and jets in the distance," said one local.
Black smoke was observed rising from major army bases in the city: the La Carlota airbase military airfield and the Fuerte Tiuna compound, where president Maduro is reported to have a residence.
Global Condemnation
The president of bordering Colombia, Gustavo Petro, wrote on a social platform that "Currently they are attacking Caracas... bombing it with missiles." He requested an swift emergency meeting of the Security Council.
Colombia, which just became a member of the UNSC, announced it would initiate operational measures at its shared border with Venezuela.
Background
The alleged attacks are preceded by a extended military buildup by the Trump administration against the Maduro regime. Beginning in last summer, there has been a major US military presence off the country's Caribbean coast and a number of air strikes on boats accused of illegal activities.
The administration has announced "a state of external threat" and ordered all defense protocols to be activated. It has also summoned its political forces to protest and "repudiate this imperialist aggression."
The White House and the Defense Department did not promptly addressed requests for clarification regarding the reports.
