The regime of Nicolás Maduro accused the United States of a "military aggression" following reports of explosions and low-flying aircraft over Caracas and other parts of Venezuela early Saturday morning.
Social media footage revealed plumes of smoke, detonations, and aircraft flying at low altitudes above residential areas. Several districts in the Venezuelan capital experienced power outages, according to accounts from residents, journalists, and local news outlets.
Initial explosions were reported around 2:00 a.m. local time, near the La Carlota airbase in eastern Caracas, as well as in the states of Miranda, Aragua, and La Guaira.
In an official statement, the Venezuelan government declared:
"The Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela rejects, condemns, and denounces to the international community the severe military aggression carried out by the Government of the United States of America against Venezuelan territory and its people."
The statement warned that this action "threatens international peace and stability" and confirmed that Maduro had enacted a "state of external commotion" across the nation, citing Article 51 of the UN Charter, which permits the right to "self-defense."
According to CBS News, U.S. President Donald Trump allegedly ordered strikes on military installations across various regions of Venezuela.
Media outlets like CNN en Español reported that their team in Caracas witnessed numerous explosions, some powerful enough to rattle building windows. Their footage showed two columns of smoke and flashes of fire near the La Carlota airport.
The official cause of the explosions has yet to be confirmed by Washington. However, the Trump administration had previously warned of taking "action" against drug trafficking networks linked to Maduro's government and had increased U.S. military presence in the Caribbean region.
This situation is still evolving.
Insights on the Alleged U.S. Military Action in Venezuela
What did Nicolás Maduro accuse the United States of?
Nicolás Maduro accused the United States of conducting a military aggression against Venezuela, following reports of explosions and aircraft activity over Caracas and other areas.
Were there any official confirmations from the U.S. about the explosions in Caracas?
The official cause of the explosions has not yet been confirmed by Washington. The Trump administration had previously indicated potential actions against drug trafficking networks associated with Maduro's regime.
How did the Venezuelan government respond to the situation?
The Venezuelan government declared a "state of external commotion" across the country, invoking Article 51 of the UN Charter, which allows for self-defense measures.