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Accounts circulated of multiple explosions and the sound of low-altitude jets in Caracas in the early hours of Saturday. The situation has prompted claims from Venezuela's government and calls for international intervention.

Caracas Condemns United States of Military Action

The incumbent government has condemned the Washington of committing "imperial aggression," alleging that ex- President Donald Trump allegedly authorized strikes against the South American country. In an formal announcement, the government stated that attacks had targeted the capital and three other regions: Miranda state, La Guaira state, and Aragua.

"Our primary goal of this attack is to seize control of Venezuela's key assets, especially its petroleum and mineral wealth," the statement asserted.

Caracas called on the global community to censure the actions, which it termed a "blatant breach of international norms" that placed millions of lives in jeopardy.

Accounts of Blasts and Military Sites Hit

Locals spoke of hearing at least seven explosions around 2 a.m. in the morning. Residents in several areas reportedly rushed into the open.

"Everything shook. It was frightening. We experienced blasts and aircraft in the distance," commented one witness.

Smoke was reported billowing from major military installations in the city: the La Carlota airbase military airfield and the Fuerte Tiuna base military base, where president Maduro is believed to reside.

International Condemnation

The leader of bordering Colombia, Gustavo Petro, stated on social media that "Right now they are striking Caracas... bombing it with rockets." He called for an swift emergency meeting of the UN Security Council.

Colombia, which just became a member of the Security Council, stated it would initiate security plans at its border with its neighbor.

Context

These alleged strikes are preceded by a prolonged military buildup by the United States against the Venezuelan regime. Beginning in last summer, authorities reported a major naval presence off Venezuela's Caribbean coast and a series of air strikes on vessels linked to drug trafficking.

Venezuela's government has announced "the implementation of emergency" and directed all national defence protocols to be activated. It has also urged its supporters to take to the streets and "denounce this foreign act."

American officials and the Defense Department have not publicly responded to inquiries for comment regarding the allegations.