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Accounts circulated of numerous explosions and the noise of low-altitude jets in the Venezuelan capital in the early hours of Saturday. The situation has led to allegations from Venezuela's leadership and requests for diplomatic intervention.

Venezuela Accuses United States of Attack

Venezuela's incumbent government has accused the Washington of an act of "imperial aggression," claiming that ex- President Trump reportedly ordered military strikes against the Latin American nation. In an formal announcement, the authorities stated that strikes had targeted Caracas and several other regions: Miranda state, La Guaira state, and Aragua.

"Our sole aim of this attack is to gain control of Venezuela's strategic resources, notably its oil and mineral wealth," the government said.

The government called on the international community to condemn the actions, which it described a "blatant breach of international norms" that put numerous of lives at risk in danger.

Reports of Blasts and Defense Installations Targeted

Residents described experiencing roughly several detonations around 2:00 AM in the morning. Residents in various districts reportedly rushed into the streets outside.

"The earth trembled. It was frightening. We experienced blasts and planes in the distance," commented one witness.

Black smoke was observed pouring from major army bases in the city: the La Carlota airbase military airfield and the Fuerte Tiuna compound, where president Nicolás Maduro is thought to have a residence.

Regional Reaction

The leader of neighboring Colombia, Gustavo Petro, claimed on X that "Right now they are striking Caracas... bombing it with missiles." He demanded an immediate emergency meeting of the Security Council.

The Colombian government, which just joined the Security Council, announced it would activate operational protocols at its shared border with its neighbor.

Preceding Events

These alleged attacks follow a months-long campaign of pressure by the Trump administration against the Venezuelan regime. Since last summer, there has been a substantial US military buildup off the country's northern coast and a series of airstrikes on vessels accused of narco-trafficking.

Venezuela's administration has stated "the implementation of emergency" and commanded all national defence measures to be activated. It has also summoned its political forces to protest and "reject this external attack."

US authorities and the US Department of Defense did not immediately commented on requests for comment regarding the events.