Venezuela earthquake death toll reaches 3,811

As the humanitarian crisis deepens, Interim President Delcy Rodriguez renewed calls for the international community to ease sanctions and release Venezuela's frozen overseas

The death toll from the devastating twin earthquakes that struck Venezuela on June 24 has climbed to 3,811, according to updated figures released by National Assembly President Jorge Rodriguez. Authorities also reported that 16,740 people have been injured, while 17,907 residents have been left homeless as rescue and recovery efforts continue.

As the humanitarian crisis deepens, Interim President Delcy Rodriguez renewed calls for the international community to ease sanctions and release Venezuela’s frozen overseas assets to support reconstruction. Speaking on state television, she said the country possesses sufficient funds abroad to finance rebuilding efforts if blocked accounts are made accessible.

Rodriguez stressed that unlocking the frozen assets would not only accelerate reconstruction but also help fund employment opportunities and education programs for communities affected by the disaster.

Venezuela has faced extensive sanctions from the United States, the European Union and several other countries over the past two decades, with measures linked to allegations of anti-democratic practices and drug trafficking. Although many restrictions remain in place, Washington eased some sanctions on Venezuela’s oil sector earlier this year following the capture of President Nicolas Maduro.

In response to the earthquake disaster, the United States also approved a four-month exemption allowing financial transactions related to humanitarian relief that would otherwise be restricted under existing sanctions.

Rodriguez further revealed that she has written to King Charles III requesting the release of approximately 31 tonnes of Venezuelan gold held by the Bank of England. She also confirmed discussions with the International Monetary Fund regarding access to financial resources for disaster recovery.

The gold reserves have remained frozen for years and continue to be the subject of a prolonged legal dispute in British courts, making them a central issue in Venezuela’s efforts to secure funding for post-earthquake reconstruction.