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Reports emerged of multiple blasts and the roar of low-altitude planes in Caracas in the early hours of the weekend. This situation has led to accusations from the Venezuelan authorities and requests for diplomatic intervention.

Venezuela Accuses United States of Aggression

Venezuela's incumbent administration has blamed the US of what it calls "foreign aggression," claiming that ex- President Donald Trump reportedly ordered attacks against the South American nation. In an formal announcement, the authorities asserted that attacks had impacted Caracas and three other provinces: Miranda state, La Guaira, and Aragua.

"The primary goal of this aggression is to seize control of Venezuela's natural resources, in particular its petroleum and minerals," the statement said.

The government called on the world to condemn the operations, which it termed a "blatant breach of international norms" that endangered millions of lives at risk in danger.

Accounts of Explosions and Defense Sites Hit

Eyewitnesses spoke of feeling at least multiple detonations around the middle of the night in the morning. People in various areas reportedly rushed into the streets.

"The earth trembled. It was horrible. We experienced blasts and planes in the area," stated one witness.

Black smoke was seen pouring from major defense sites in the city: the La Carlota military airfield and the Fuerte Tiuna military base, where president Nicolás Maduro is reported to live.

Global Response

The president of neighboring Colombia, Gustavo Petro, stated on X that "At this moment they are striking Venezuela... attacking it with rockets." He requested an swift emergency meeting of the Security Council.

The Colombian government, which recently became a member of the Security Council, stated it would activate operational measures at its border with its neighbor.

Context

These reported strikes come after a prolonged military buildup by the United States against the Maduro administration. Beginning in August, there has been a major US military buildup off the country's northern coast and a number of strikes on ships accused of narco-trafficking.

Venezuela's administration has declared "a state of emergency" and directed all defense measures to be activated. It has also called on its political forces to take to the streets and "reject this external aggression."

American officials and the US Department of Defense did not publicly responded to requests for comment regarding the reports.