June 25: A powerful earthquake in Venezuela has claimed at least 32 lives and left more than 700 people injured, according to interim President Delcy Rodríguez. The tremor has caused widespread destruction, with severe building collapses reported in La Guaira and surrounding regions.
Describing the situation as a “true tragedy,” Rodríguez said emergency response teams are working continuously to carry out search-and-rescue operations, locate survivors trapped under debris, and provide urgent medical care to the injured.
Authorities confirmed that extensive structural damage has disrupted normal services and slowed access to some affected areas. Despite these challenges, rescue operations remain underway with full mobilisation of emergency personnel across the impacted regions.
The government has prioritised relief measures, including deployment of medical teams, restoration of essential services, and evacuation support for displaced residents. Efforts are also being made to ensure timely delivery of food, water, and emergency supplies.
Rodríguez expressed gratitude to international partners, including US President Donald Trump, for extending support in response to the disaster. She also confirmed that international rescue teams are expected to arrive in Venezuela within hours to assist ongoing operations.
Humanitarian agencies and global relief organisations are closely monitoring the situation as rescue and recovery efforts intensify. Priority remains focused on saving lives, supporting the injured, and stabilising affected communities.
Experts have warned that the scale of destruction highlights the region’s vulnerability to seismic activity and underscores the urgent need for stronger disaster preparedness and resilient infrastructure.