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Accounts emerged of multiple blasts and the roar of low-altitude planes in Caracas in the pre-dawn hours of the weekend. This incident has sparked accusations from Venezuela's leadership and requests for diplomatic intervention.

Venezuela Blames US of Attack

Venezuela's socialist government has accused the United States of committing "imperialist aggression," claiming that former President Donald Trump allegedly ordered strikes against the Latin American country. In an public statement, the government confirmed that strikes had hit Caracas and several other regions: Miranda, La Guaira state, and Aragua.

"Our only objective of these strikes is to gain control of our nation's natural resources, in particular its petroleum and minerals," Venezuela declared.

The government called on the world to condemn the strikes, which it termed a "flagrant violation of global law" that endangered countless of lives at risk in jeopardy.

Reports of Blasts and Defense Installations Hit

Locals spoke of experiencing at least several powerful blasts around 2:00 AM local time. Citizens in various areas allegedly hurried into the streets outside.

"Everything shook. This is frightening. We heard explosions and jets in the area," stated one witness.

Plumes of smoke was reported pouring from two army bases in the city: the La Carlota airbase military airfield and the Fuerte Tiuna compound, where leader Nicolás Maduro is thought to have a residence.

Global Response

The president of bordering Colombia, claimed on social media that "Right now they are striking Caracas... attacking it with projectiles." He called for an immediate emergency session of the UN Security Council.

The Colombian government, which just joined the Security Council, stated it would initiate operational protocols at its frontier with Venezuela.

Context

The alleged attacks come after a prolonged military buildup by the Trump administration against the Maduro government. Beginning in August, there has been a significant American military presence off the country's northern coast and a number of airstrikes on vessels accused of narco-trafficking.

Venezuela's government has stated "a state of external disturbance" and commanded all national defence protocols to be activated. It has also urged its citizens to take to the streets and "denounce this foreign attack."

American officials and the Pentagon did not publicly addressed inquiries for comment regarding the events.