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Witness testimonies circulated of multiple detonations and the roar of low-flying planes in the Venezuelan capital in the pre-dawn hours of Saturday morning. This event has led to accusations from Venezuela's leadership and calls for diplomatic action.

Venezuela Condemns US of Military Action

Venezuela's socialist government has condemned the United States of an act of "imperialist aggression," claiming that former President Donald Trump allegedly ordered strikes against the South American nation. In an formal announcement, the government confirmed that attacks had impacted Caracas and three other states: Miranda state, La Guaira, and Aragua state.

"Our primary goal of these strikes is to seize control of Venezuela's key assets, in particular its petroleum and mineral wealth," the government said.

The government appealed to the international community to condemn the operations, which it labeled a "clear infringement of global law" that put millions of civilians in danger.

Reports of Explosions and Military Bases Hit

Residents reported hearing at least multiple detonations around 2:00 AM in the morning. Residents in various areas allegedly ran into the open.

"Everything shook. This is horrible. We experienced explosions and jets in the area," stated one resident.

Black smoke was observed billowing from two defense sites in the city: the La Carlota airbase military airfield and the Fuerte Tiuna base compound, where president Nicolás Maduro is reported to live.

Regional Reaction

The leader of bordering Colombia, stated on a social platform that "At this moment they are striking Caracas... attacking it with rockets." He called for an urgent emergency meeting of the Security Council.

Colombia, which just became a member of the Security Council, said it would activate operational plans at its shared border with Venezuela.

Background

The alleged strikes are preceded by a extended pressure campaign by the United States against the Maduro administration. Since last summer, there has been a significant naval deployment off the country's Caribbean coast and a series of air strikes on ships linked to illegal activities.

The administration has declared "a state of external disturbance" and ordered all national defense plans to be initiated. It has also summoned its political forces to take to the streets and "repudiate this foreign act."

US authorities and the Pentagon have not immediately commented on inquiries for clarification regarding the events.