32 dead after powerful double earthquake hits Venezuela as Donald Trump issues statement
United States President Donald Trump has issued a statement following the earthquakes that struck Venezuela earlier this week on Wednesday (24 June).
The 7.2 and 7.5 magnitude earthquakes roiled the region, leaving at least 32 people dead and injuring at least 700.
In a brief address to the nation late on Wednesday, acting president Delcy Rodríguez - who stepped in following the January arrest and detention of Nicolás Maduro - warned the toll was expected to rise as rescuers searched collapsed buildings and emergency crews reached devastated areas.
The casualty figures released early Thursday (25 June) excluded the state of La Guaira, which Rodriguez described as a 'disaster zone' and the area hardest hit.
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Rodriguez has since declared a state of emergency in an address to the nation.
"Dozens of buildings have collapsed there, about 30 kilometres (19 miles) north of Caracas, and we are currently carrying out intensive rescue operations to save lives," she said.
"We urge our population to remain calm," she continued. "We urge unity."
Offers of help were made by various governments, including the United States, Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Ecuador, El Salvador, Mexico, Panama and Uruguay.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said in a post on X that the United States is 'immediately deploying search and rescue teams, medical resources, and humanitarian assistance to Venezuela'.
Taking to Truth Social, Trump added: "The two major earthquakes that just hit the great people of Venezuela are both massive in scale and have left a devastating number of deaths.
"The U.S.A. stands ready, willing, and able to help! I have instructed all agencies of our government to get ready to move quickly. We will be there for our new and great friends. Early reports are not good!!! President DJT."
Rodriguez has since thanked Trump for the support.
Taking to X, the interim Venezuelan president said the Trump administration has been 'in constant contact' with the nation's authorities.
"[They have been] offering support and solidarity to the people of Venezuela in the face of this tragedy that has plunged us into mourning," she wrote.
"Venezuela will never forget the helping hand extended to our people during these difficult times."
According to the US Geological Survey, which used predictive modelling to estimate the death toll from the two earthquakes, the number of dead would most likely run into the thousands, with a substantial probability of the eventual toll exceeding 10,000.
The survey issued two red alerts, estimating a 41% probability that fatalities could exceed 10,000 and a 17% chance they could reach 100,000.
Topics: Weather, World News, Donald Trump, US News, Politics
Rhiannon Ingle