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Accounts emerged of numerous detonations and the noise of low-altitude planes in the Venezuelan capital in the early hours of the weekend. The situation has sparked claims from Venezuela's leadership and requests for diplomatic intervention.

Caracas Blames United States of Aggression

Venezuela's socialist administration has blamed the Washington of what it calls "foreign aggression," claiming that ex- President Donald Trump reportedly ordered military strikes against the South American country. In an formal announcement, the government stated that strikes had impacted the capital and several other states: Miranda, La Guaira, and Aragua state.

"The only objective of this attack is to gain control of Venezuela's natural resources, notably its crude oil and minerals," the government declared.

Venezuelan officials urged the world to censure the actions, which it termed a "clear infringement of global law" that placed numerous of civilians in danger.

Accounts of Explosions and Defense Sites Targeted

Residents reported feeling at least several powerful blasts around 2 a.m. local time. Residents in several neighborhoods reportedly rushed into the streets.

"The earth trembled. This is terrifying. We experienced explosions and planes in the area," stated one local.

Black smoke was observed billowing from key defense sites in the city: the La Carlota air base and the Fuerte Tiuna compound, where leader Nicolás Maduro is reported to have a residence.

Regional Reaction

The president of neighboring Colombia, wrote on social media that "Right now they are bombing Venezuela... bombing it with rockets." He demanded an swift meeting of the UN Security Council.

Colombia, which just became a member of the Security Council, said it would activate security protocols at its border with Venezuela.

Preceding Events

These alleged strikes follow a prolonged military buildup by the US against the Maduro regime. Beginning in August, authorities reported a significant naval deployment off Venezuela's Caribbean coast and a number of strikes on boats accused of narco-trafficking.

The government has announced "the implementation of external threat" and commanded all defense plans to be initiated. It has also called on its citizens to mobilize and "denounce this foreign act."

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