🔗 Share this article Detonations and Low-Flying Planes Witnessed in Venezuelan Capital Caracas Reports emerged of numerous explosions and the sound of low-flying jets in the Venezuelan capital in the small hours of Saturday morning. The situation has led to claims from the Venezuelan authorities and requests for diplomatic scrutiny. Venezuela Blames United States of Aggression The incumbent government has blamed the US of committing "imperialist aggression," stating that former President Trump supposedly authorized strikes against the South American country. In an public statement, the government asserted that strikes had targeted the capital and several other states: Miranda, La Guaira state, and Aragua state. "The primary goal of this aggression is to seize control of Venezuela's natural resources, in particular its crude oil and mineral wealth," Venezuela asserted. Venezuelan officials appealed to the international community to censure the strikes, which it described a "blatant breach of international law" that placed numerous of civilians in danger. Reports of Explosions and Defense Bases Targeted Locals reported experiencing at least seven explosions around the middle of the night local time. Residents in several districts reportedly rushed into the streets. "The whole ground shook. It was frightening. We heard blasts and aircraft in the sky," commented one resident. Smoke was seen billowing from key army bases in the city: the La Carlota airbase airfield and the Fuerte Tiuna base army base, where leader Maduro is believed to reside. Regional Response The president of bordering Colombia, wrote on social media that "Currently they are striking Venezuela... attacking it with projectiles." He requested an swift meeting of the UN Security Council. The Colombian government, which just joined the UNSC, announced it would activate defense measures at its border with Venezuela. Preceding Events The reported strikes follow a prolonged campaign of pressure by the Trump administration against the Maduro regime. Since August, authorities reported a significant US military presence off the country's Caribbean coast and a number of air strikes on ships accused of drug trafficking. Venezuela's administration has stated "a state of emergency" and commanded all national defence plans to be initiated. It has also summoned its supporters to mobilize and "denounce this imperialist attack." US authorities and the Defense Department have not immediately commented on inquiries for clarification regarding the allegations.