Venezuela Earthquakes: 235 Dead, Thousands Still Missing As Rescue Efforts Continue

The death toll from the earthquakes that struck northern Venezuela has risen to 235, with more than 4,300 people injured. Thousands are still missing as rescue teams continue searching through the rubble of collapsed buildings, raising fears that the number of casualties could climb sharply in the coming days.

The powerful earthquakes, measuring 7.2 and 7.5 in magnitude, left a trail of destruction across northern Venezuela, flattening homes, damaging critical infrastructure and trapping people beneath the debris. Rescue efforts have been hampered by damaged roads, unstable buildings and persistent aftershocks, making it difficult for emergency crews to reach some of the hardest-hit areas. Authorities believe many victims remain buried under collapsed structures.

According to AFP, countries around the world have begun sending rescue teams, humanitarian aid and financial assistance to Venezuela. Interim President Delcy Rodríguez said United Nations-certified rescue teams would join local emergency workers in the search for survivors.

International support has continued to expand, with European countries taking a leading role in the relief effort. Germany has pledged six military transport aircraft, while Spain and France are deploying specialist rescue teams. Switzerland is sending 80 rescue personnel, eight search dogs and 18 tonnes of emergency equipment. The Netherlands has announced a two-million-euro aid package to support search-and-rescue operations, while the Czech Republic is preparing to dispatch an emergency response team.

The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies has released $2.5 million to support relief and recovery efforts. The Vatican said Pope Leo XIV has made an initial emergency donation of 100,000 euros to help those affected by the disaster.

The United States has announced $150 million in humanitarian assistance and is deploying two naval vessels, helicopters and transport aircraft. China has said it is ready to provide aid based on Venezuela's needs, while Iran has also offered support for rescue and relief operations.

Neighbouring countries have also stepped up their assistance. Brazil is sending a field hospital, firefighters and rescue specialists, while Mexico has dispatched military rescue teams and medical personnel. Argentina, Costa Rica, Uruguay, Ecuador and the Dominican Republic have also pledged support as rescue and recovery efforts continue.

The United Nations Independent International Fact-Finding Mission on Venezuela described the earthquakes as a devastating blow to a country already grappling with multiple challenges. The mission urged authorities to ensure that human rights remain at the heart of both national and international relief efforts. It also called on Venezuela's telecommunications regulator, CONATEL, to fully restore access to social media platforms and other media outlets, stressing that the free flow of information is vital during the ongoing emergency.