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Accounts surfaced of multiple detonations and the noise of low-altitude aircraft in Caracas in the small hours of Saturday morning. This event has sparked accusations from the Venezuelan authorities and requests for global scrutiny.

Caracas Condemns Washington of Aggression

Venezuela's socialist government has blamed the US of what it calls "foreign aggression," alleging that ex- President Donald Trump allegedly authorized attacks against the South American nation. In an formal declaration, the authorities stated that attacks had targeted Caracas and three other states: Miranda state, La Guaira, and Aragua.

"The only objective of these strikes is to seize control of Venezuela's key assets, in particular its oil and mineral wealth," the government asserted.

The government appealed to the international community to denounce the actions, which it described a "clear infringement of international norms" that put numerous of civilians in danger.

Reports of Explosions and Defense Sites Hit

Locals described hearing roughly seven powerful blasts around 2:00 AM in the morning. Citizens in various areas allegedly hurried into the streets outside.

"The whole ground shook. This is frightening. We experienced blasts and jets in the sky," commented one resident.

Smoke was reported rising from major army bases in Caracas: the La Carlota military airfield and the Fuerte Tiuna military base, where president Nicolás Maduro is believed to have a residence.

Global Response

The president of bordering Colombia, wrote on X that "Currently they are attacking Caracas... attacking it with projectiles." He demanded an swift emergency meeting of the Security Council.

Colombia, which recently joined the UNSC, announced it would activate defense measures at its border with its neighbor.

Background

These alleged attacks come after a extended military buildup by the United States against the Maduro regime. Beginning in last summer, authorities reported a significant naval presence off the country's Caribbean coast and a number of strikes on vessels accused of narco-trafficking.

Venezuela's government has declared "a state of external threat" and directed all defense protocols to be initiated. It has also summoned its supporters to protest and "repudiate this external attack."

The White House and the Pentagon did not promptly commented on inquiries for a statement regarding the events.