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

Accounts surfaced of several explosions and the noise of low-flying planes in Caracas in the small hours of the weekend. The event has led to accusations from Venezuela's leadership and calls for diplomatic action.

Venezuela Accuses US of Military Action

Venezuela's authoritarian regime has blamed the US of committing "imperialist aggression," alleging that former President Trump reportedly directed strikes against the South American country. In an formal announcement, the authorities confirmed that attacks had targeted the capital and several other regions: Miranda, La Guaira, and Aragua state.

"The primary goal of these strikes is to take control of Venezuela's strategic resources, especially its oil and mineral wealth," the statement asserted.

Venezuelan officials appealed to the global community to condemn the operations, which it labeled a "blatant breach of global law" that placed numerous of civilians in danger.

Accounts of Explosions and Defense Sites Hit

Residents spoke of feeling roughly several explosions around 2 a.m. local time. Citizens in various neighborhoods reportedly hurried into the streets outside.

"The earth trembled. This is frightening. We experienced blasts and aircraft in the distance," said one resident.

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

Regional Condemnation

The leader of neighboring Colombia, wrote on X that "At this moment they are bombing Venezuela... bombing it with rockets." He demanded an urgent meeting of the United Nations Security Council.

Colombia, which just became a member of the Security Council, stated it would activate security measures at its border with Venezuela.

Preceding Events

The alleged strikes are preceded by a prolonged campaign of pressure by the Trump administration against the Maduro regime. Beginning in last summer, authorities reported a significant US military buildup off the country's northern coast and a series of airstrikes on vessels suspected of illegal activities.

Venezuela's government has declared "the implementation of emergency" and ordered all defense measures to be activated. It has also summoned its citizens to take to the streets and "denounce this imperialist attack."

US authorities and the Defense Department have not immediately commented on requests for comment regarding the events.