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Accounts emerged of multiple detonations and the sound of low-flying planes in the Venezuelan capital in the pre-dawn hours of the weekend. This incident has prompted allegations from the Venezuelan authorities and calls for diplomatic intervention.

Venezuela Blames United States of Aggression

Venezuela's socialist government has blamed the US of an act of "imperialist aggression," claiming that ex- President Trump reportedly authorized military strikes against the South American country. In an formal announcement, the government stated that attacks had targeted the capital and three other regions: Miranda, La Guaira state, and Aragua.

"The primary goal of this attack is to seize control of Venezuela's strategic resources, notably its petroleum and minerals," the government said.

Caracas urged the international community to denounce the operations, which it described a "flagrant violation of international norms" that placed countless of lives in danger.

Accounts of Explosions and Military Bases Hit

Locals spoke of hearing approximately seven powerful blasts around 2:00 AM local time. Residents in different neighborhoods reportedly hurried into the open.

"The earth trembled. This is terrifying. We heard explosions and planes in the area," commented one witness.

Black smoke was observed pouring from major military installations in Caracas: the La Carlota air base and the Fuerte Tiuna army base, where president Maduro is believed to live.

Global Response

The president of bordering Colombia, wrote on a social platform that "Currently they are attacking Venezuela... bombing it with projectiles." He demanded an immediate emergency meeting of the United Nations Security Council.

Colombia, which recently joined the UNSC, said it would initiate operational protocols at its frontier with Venezuela.

Context

These alleged strikes come after a months-long military buildup by the US against the Maduro regime. Beginning in last summer, there has been a significant naval presence off Venezuela's northern coast and a series of strikes on boats suspected of drug trafficking.

Venezuela's government has declared "the implementation of external disturbance" and ordered all national defence plans to be initiated. It has also urged its supporters to take to the streets and "repudiate this foreign act."

The White House and the Defense Department did not publicly commented on requests for comment regarding the reports.