Rescue workers are working hard to find the missing people - Photo: AP
According to Venezuela's interim president, Delcy Rodríguez, the death toll could rise as search and rescue operations are deployed in many of the hardest-hit areas.
The state of La Guaira is considered one of the hardest-hit areas, with dozens of buildings collapsing. In the capital Caracas, at least three large buildings completely collapsed, including a 22-story apartment building that was almost completely destroyed. Many residential areas in the Chacao and Baruta districts are no longer safe, forcing thousands of people to evacuate and take shelter in relief centers or sleep outdoors due to fears of further aftershocks.
Rescue efforts faced numerous challenges as the risk of building collapse remained, while some areas experienced power outages and disrupted communication systems. Several hospitals were also damaged, affecting the reception and treatment of victims.
Photo: AP/Getty Images
The earthquake also caused serious disruptions to transportation infrastructure and essential services. Simón Bolívar International Airport in Maiquetía had to temporarily close; the Caracas metro system, the gas supply network, and many schools ceased operations. The Venezuelan Ministry of Education announced that it would repurpose some schools as temporary shelters and centers for receiving aid.
President Delcy Rodríguez declared a nationwide state of emergency, urging citizens to remain calm, united, and to follow the instructions of authorities. She affirmed that the top priority is protecting lives and stated that the government will mobilize all resources to carry out rescue, relief, and support operations in the affected areas.
US President Donald Trump said Washington is ready to assist Venezuela and has directed federal agencies to prepare for the deployment of emergency relief operations. US Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau also said Washington is in contact with the Venezuelan government and mobilizing resources for support.
According to U.S. officials, a disaster relief team and task force have been activated to coordinate humanitarian aid and emergency relief. Secretary of State Marco Rubio also confirmed that U.S. rescue and medical support teams are being deployed under the President's directive.
Ecuadorian President Daniel Noboa has directed the immediate deployment of humanitarian aid packages to Venezuela.
The Chilean government also expressed its readiness to provide humanitarian assistance and participate in relief efforts if Caracas requests it. The Chilean Foreign Ministry stated that the country is closely monitoring the situation and is ready to coordinate support for earthquake recovery efforts.
Argentina and Brazil have also offered assistance to Venezuela, particularly in the form of humanitarian aid and logistical support for rescue efforts.
Delcy Rodríguez stated that international rescue teams would arrive in Venezuela as soon as possible to participate in search and rescue operations and earthquake relief efforts. She affirmed that Venezuela is receiving support and solidarity from the international community.
An Binh
Source: https://baochinhphu.vn/venezuela-chay-dua-cuu-nan-sau-dong-dat-102260625155742268.htm
