Earthquakes Strike Venezuela; U.S. Offers Support

President Donald Trump expressed readiness to assist Venezuela following two significant earthquakes measured at 7.2 and 7.5 magnitudes on Wednesday night, which led to numerous casualties.

“Two major earthquakes have struck the great people of Venezuela, both of great magnitude and resulted in a devastating number of deaths. The United States is ready, willing, and positioned to help! I have directed all branches of government to act quickly. We are here for our new great friend. Early reporting is not good!!! President DJT,” Trump stated on Truth Social.

As of now, reports from Venezuela’s socialist administration suggest that at least 32 people have died and over 700 are injured. Many structures, especially in the capital, Caracas, and the nearby La Guaira state, have reportedly collapsed.

The incident is being described as one of the worst disasters in Venezuela’s recent history, second only to the 1967 earthquake in Caracas.

According to the United States Geological Survey (USGS), the earthquakes have likely caused significant casualties and widespread damage. Venezuela’s state news outlet, VTV, noted that the main international airport, Simón Bolívar in Maiquetia, suffered damage and had to temporarily close.

Acting President Delcy Rodriguez expressed gratitude to President Trump and his team for maintaining communication with Venezuelan officials in light of this tragedy. Rodriguez, who leads Venezuela’s socialist government, has reportedly been in touch with Trump’s administration since the arrest of dictator Nicolas Maduro on January 3.

Rodriguez stated, “We thank President Donald Trump and his administration for providing support and solidarity to our people in the face of this tragedy that has plunged us into mourning, and for staying in constant contact with the Venezuelan authorities. Venezuela will never forget the helping hand extended to its people during this extremely difficult time.”

Additionally, early Thursday, Rodriguez spoke with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who expressed solidarity and support for the Venezuelan population. “Thank you for your expression of solidarity with Venezuela during these difficult times, when the effects of natural disasters that have affected several regions of the country are noticeable,” she said.

Christopher Landau, the Assistant Secretary of State, mentioned, “The United States stands by the people of Venezuela in the aftermath of this evening’s devastating earthquake. We are in contact with authorities and are mobilizing support. God bless our friends in Venezuela during this difficult time.”