By | Gitanjali Thorat
Multiple explosions and low-flying aircraft were reported in Venezuela’s capital Caracas around 2 a.m. local time on Saturday, triggering panic among residents and prompting an emergency response from the government. Smoke was seen rising from the hangar of a military base, while another military installation reportedly lost power.
Government’s Allegation
Venezuela’s government accused the United States, under President Donald Trump, of carrying out attacks on both civilian and military installations across multiple states. In an official statement, the government described the incidents as an “imperialist attack” and called on supporters to take to the streets in protest.
State of Emergency Declared
President Nicolás Maduro ordered the immediate activation of all national defence plans and declared a “state of external disturbance.” Authorities urged political and social organisations to mobilise nationwide as security forces were placed on high alert.
Eyewitness Accounts
Residents across several neighbourhoods reported hearing loud blasts and seeing aircraft flying unusually low. “The whole ground shook. We heard explosions and planes. It felt like the air was hitting us,” said Carmen Hidalgo, a 21-year-old resident, who was returning home with relatives at the time.
US Response Awaited
The Pentagon and the White House did not immediately respond to requests for comment. There has been no official confirmation from Washington regarding the alleged attacks.
Rising Tensions
The accusations come amid escalating tensions between the two countries. In recent months, the US military has targeted alleged drug-smuggling boats in the Caribbean and eastern Pacific, actions Washington has described as part of an armed conflict against narcotics trafficking. Venezuela, however, has repeatedly accused the US of using anti-drug operations as a pretext for regime-change efforts.
International Attention
Iranian state media aired footage of explosions in Caracas, underscoring growing international attention to the unfolding crisis. Venezuela and Iran have maintained close ties, united by their opposition to US foreign policy.
