Detonations and Low-Flying Planes Heard in Venezuelan Capital City Caracas City

Reports surfaced of multiple blasts and the sound of low-altitude aircraft in the Venezuelan capital in the early hours of Saturday. The event has led to accusations from the Venezuelan leadership and calls for international action.

Venezuela Blames US of Attack

The incumbent regime has blamed the United States of committing "imperial aggression," alleging that ex- President Donald Trump reportedly ordered attacks against the Latin American nation. In an formal statement, the authorities stated that attacks had targeted the capital and three other states: Miranda state, La Guaira, and Aragua.

"The sole aim of this attack is to seize control of Venezuela's strategic resources, especially its oil and mineral wealth," Venezuela asserted.

Venezuelan officials appealed to the world to denounce the actions, which it termed a "clear infringement of global law" that put countless of civilians in jeopardy.

Accounts of Blasts and Defense Bases Targeted

Locals reported feeling at least multiple detonations around the middle of the night in the morning. People in various districts allegedly hurried into the streets.

"The earth trembled. It was frightening. We heard blasts and jets in the distance," said one resident.

Black smoke was reported pouring from key army bases in Caracas: the La Carlota airbase airfield and the Fuerte Tiuna base army base, where leader Nicolás Maduro is believed to live.

International Reaction

The president of bordering Colombia, Gustavo Petro, wrote on social media that "At this moment they are attacking Caracas... attacking it with projectiles." He called for an swift emergency meeting of the Security Council.

Colombia, which recently joined the UNSC, stated it would activate operational plans at its frontier with its neighbor.

Preceding Events

These reported strikes follow a prolonged military buildup by the US against the Venezuelan administration. Since August, there has been a significant US military buildup off Venezuela's Caribbean coast and a number of airstrikes on boats suspected of illegal activities.

Venezuela's government has declared "a state of emergency" and ordered all national defense protocols to be initiated. It has also summoned its supporters to mobilize and "denounce this imperialist aggression."

The White House and the US Department of Defense did not promptly addressed inquiries for clarification regarding the events.