Venezuela latest: Caracas blames Trump for strikes as huge explosions heard in capital

Venezuela has accused the United States of launching an attack after at least seven explosions and low-flying aircraft were heard in it’s capital.

The Venezuelan government said attacks took place in Caracas, Miranda, Aragua and La Guaira.

It said it rejected “military aggression” by the US, and said the goal of the attack is to “take possession of Venezuelan oil and minerals”.

The Pentagon and White House did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

The explosions come amid heightened tensions between the US and Venezuela.

US President Donald Trump had threatened for months that he could soon order strikes on targets on Venezuelan land, as the US military has been targeting over recent months boats they claim to be drug-smuggling.

The CIA was behind a drone strike last week at a docking area they say have been used by Venezuelan drug cartels in what was the first known direct operation on Venezuelan soil since the US began strikes on boats in September.

The country’s President Nicolas Maduro also said in a pre-taped interview aired on Thursday that the US wants to force a government change in Venezuela and gain access to its vast oil reserves.

Mr Maduro has been charged with narco-terrorism in the US.

At least seven explosions and low-flying aircraft have been heard in Venezuela’s capital.

The explosions were witnessed by residents who rushed to the streets at around 2am local time in Caracas.

Some explosions could be seen in the distance from various areas of Caracas.