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Accounts circulated of several blasts and the noise of low-flying planes in the Venezuelan capital in the early hours of Saturday morning. This event has sparked accusations from the Venezuelan authorities and demands for international action.

Venezuela Blames US of Attack

The authoritarian government has accused the United States of an act of "imperialist aggression," stating that ex- President Donald Trump supposedly ordered strikes against the South American nation. In an official announcement, the government confirmed that strikes had targeted Caracas and three other regions: Miranda, La Guaira state, and Aragua.

"Our sole aim of this attack is to gain control of Venezuela's key assets, especially its crude oil and resources," the government declared.

Venezuelan officials urged the global community to censure the strikes, which it labeled a "blatant breach of international law" that put millions of civilians in jeopardy.

Accounts of Explosions and Military Bases Hit

Eyewitnesses described feeling roughly several detonations around the middle of the night local time. People in several areas allegedly ran into the streets.

"Everything shook. This is frightening. We experienced explosions and aircraft in the distance," stated one witness.

Smoke was reported pouring from major army bases in Caracas: the La Carlota airfield and the Fuerte Tiuna military base, where leader Maduro is thought to reside.

International Reaction

The president of bordering Colombia, Gustavo Petro, claimed on X that "Right now they are striking Venezuela... bombing it with missiles." He called for an swift meeting of the Security Council.

The Colombian government, which recently joined the UNSC, announced it would activate defense measures at its shared border with Venezuela.

Preceding Events

The reported attacks are preceded by a prolonged pressure campaign by the United States against the Maduro administration. Since last summer, authorities reported a substantial US military presence off Venezuela's Caribbean coast and a number of strikes on boats linked to illegal activities.

The administration has stated "the implementation of external threat" and directed all national defence protocols to be initiated. It has also summoned its citizens to protest and "reject this foreign attack."

US authorities and the Pentagon did not publicly responded to requests for comment regarding the reports.