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Accounts emerged of several explosions and the noise of low-flying planes in Caracas in the pre-dawn hours of Saturday morning. The situation has led to claims from the Venezuelan government and requests for international scrutiny.

Caracas Condemns US of Military Action

The incumbent government has accused the United States of committing "imperial aggression," stating that ex- President Donald Trump reportedly directed military strikes against the South American state. In an public declaration, the government confirmed that strikes had hit Caracas and several other regions: Miranda state, La Guaira state, and Aragua.

"The only objective of this aggression is to gain control of Venezuela's strategic resources, especially its petroleum and minerals," Venezuela asserted.

Venezuelan officials urged the international community to condemn the actions, which it described a "flagrant violation of international norms" that placed numerous of civilians in danger.

Reports of Explosions and Military Sites Targeted

Residents reported hearing approximately several powerful blasts around the middle of the night local time. Residents in various neighborhoods reportedly rushed into the streets outside.

"The whole ground shook. This is terrifying. We heard blasts and jets in the sky," said one witness.

Plumes of smoke was seen billowing from key army bases in the city: the La Carlota air base and the Fuerte Tiuna compound, where leader Nicolás Maduro is reported to reside.

International Response

The president of bordering Colombia, Gustavo Petro, wrote on X that "Right now they are attacking Caracas... bombing it with missiles." He called for an urgent emergency meeting of the United Nations Security Council.

The Colombian government, which recently became a member of the UNSC, said it would initiate defense measures at its border with its neighbor.

Preceding Events

The alleged attacks come after a extended campaign of pressure by the United States against the Venezuelan government. Beginning in August, authorities reported a major naval presence off the country's northern coast and a number of air strikes on vessels linked to narco-trafficking.

Venezuela's government has stated "the implementation of emergency" and commanded all national defence measures to be implemented. It has also urged its political forces to take to the streets and "repudiate this imperialist aggression."

The White House and the US Department of Defense did not immediately commented on inquiries for comment regarding the reports.