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Accounts emerged of several explosions and the roar of low-flying planes in the Venezuelan capital in the pre-dawn hours of the weekend. This incident has prompted accusations from Venezuela's leadership and requests for international action.

Venezuela Accuses Washington of Military Action

The socialist administration has condemned the Washington of committing "foreign aggression," alleging that former President Donald Trump reportedly ordered strikes against the South American state. In an formal announcement, the government asserted that attacks had impacted the capital and several other states: Miranda, La Guaira, and Aragua.

"Our primary goal of this attack is to take control of our nation's key assets, especially its petroleum and mineral wealth," the government asserted.

Caracas called on the world to denounce the strikes, which it termed a "clear infringement of international norms" that placed millions of lives in danger.

Reports of Blasts and Military Installations Hit

Residents spoke of experiencing approximately seven detonations around 2:00 AM local time. Residents in several areas reportedly hurried into the open.

"The whole ground shook. This is horrible. We heard explosions and jets in the sky," commented one local.

Smoke was reported rising from major army bases in the city: the La Carlota airbase air base and the Fuerte Tiuna compound, where leader Maduro is thought to reside.

International Condemnation

The leader of bordering Colombia, Gustavo Petro, claimed on X that "Currently they are bombing Venezuela... bombing it with missiles." He demanded an immediate emergency session of the Security Council.

The Colombian government, which just became a member of the Security Council, stated it would activate security protocols at its border with Venezuela.

Context

The reported attacks are preceded by a prolonged military buildup by the United States against the Venezuelan government. Beginning in August, there has been a substantial US military buildup off Venezuela's Caribbean coast and a series of airstrikes on boats accused of drug trafficking.

Venezuela's government has declared "the implementation of external disturbance" and directed all defense measures to be activated. It has also summoned its citizens to mobilize and "repudiate this foreign act."

The White House and the Defense Department have not publicly commented on inquiries for comment regarding the allegations.