Venezuela earthquake death toll rises as twin quakes devastate northern regions

On June 24, 2026, two powerful earthquakes of magnitudes 7.2 and 7.5 struck northwestern Venezuela within a minute, causing widespread destruction. The death toll has risen to at least 1,430, with over 3,200 injured and more than 50,000 people reported missing. The United Nations estimates that up to 6.76 million people may have been affected, and the economic damage is equivalent to 6% of Venezuela's GDP. International rescue teams from over 20 countries, including the US, Mexico, the Netherlands, and the UK, have arrived to assist, but local frustration is mounting over the perceived slow government response. Venezuelan interim President Delcy Rodríguez has been booed by residents in affected areas, and many families are digging through rubble with bare hands. The political context is significant: the US, under President Trump, has deployed a large disaster response team and pledged $150 million, marking a shift in relations after the Trump administration orchestrated the capture of former strongman Nicolás Maduro in January. The European Union has also provided €5 million in emergency aid. Amid the tragedy, there have been moments of hope, such as the rescue of an 11-year-old boy and a baby from the rubble. The disaster has exposed vulnerabilities in Venezuela's infrastructure and governance. The country's only international airport was damaged, and power outages continue to hamper relief efforts. The UN migration agency has called for a bigger international response, warning of immediate needs for shelter, water, sanitation, and healthcare.