Venezuela earthquake death toll surpasses 4,500

CARACAS: The death toll from two powerful earthquakes that struck Venezuela last month has risen to 4,561, according to National Assembly President Jorge Rodriguez.

Rodriguez said more than 16,700 people were injured in the disasters, which caused widespread destruction across affected areas. He said the government has provided assistance to over 128,000 families and established temporary shelters for thousands of displaced residents.

Officials reported that 107 emergency camps have been set up, providing accommodation for more than 20,000 people. However, nearly 18,000 people are still without permanent housing following the destruction caused by the earthquakes.

The powerful tremors damaged hundreds of buildings across the country. Authorities said 856 structures were affected, including 190 buildings that completely collapsed.

According to the United States Geological Survey, Venezuela was hit by two major earthquakes measuring 7.2 and 7.5 magnitude on June 24.

Rodriguez said the country requires significant financial resources for reconstruction, employment initiatives, and education programmes. He called for access to Venezuelan assets frozen abroad to help support recovery efforts.

The Venezuelan government has long faced international sanctions imposed by the United States, the European Union, and other countries over political and security-related concerns. Some restrictions remain active, although limited relief measures have been introduced for humanitarian and recovery purposes.

Following the earthquakes, the United States temporarily authorised certain transactions linked to earthquake relief efforts that would otherwise have been restricted under sanctions.

Venezuelan officials have also sought the release of national assets held overseas. Vice President Delcy Rodriguez said she requested the release of Venezuelan gold stored at the Bank of England and held discussions with international financial institutions regarding frozen funds.