Venezuela’s Earthquake Response Marks a Shift
Delcy Rodríguez, Venezuela’s interim “president,” expressed gratitude on Wednesday to the U.S. government for its offer of assistance following a devastating earthquake. This marks a notable change from the previous stance that discouraged Venezuelans from accepting U.S. aid during times of crisis.
A magnitude 7.1 earthquake struck late Wednesday, located approximately 164 miles from Caracas. The quake caused significant destruction, flattening an entire block of buildings and critically damaging the capital’s main airport. Reports indicate at least 10 buildings collapsed in Caracas, with fears that many individuals are trapped beneath the debris, amid hazardous conditions with downed power lines.
Earthquakes of this magnitude aren’t common in Venezuela, but they do occur. Given the country’s precarious state after decades of socialist policies, the consequences of this earthquake are expected to be severe. Rodriguez’s administration, which followed the leadership of Nicolás Maduro—currently imprisoned—and Hugo Chávez, didn’t invest adequately in infrastructure. As a result, many citizens are enduring extreme poverty, lacking access to essential services like healthcare, electricity, and food.
As of Thursday morning, Rodriguez shared that the death toll had reached at least 164, with around 970 individuals injured. The numbers may rise significantly, as the country’s inadequate search and rescue resources from years of mismanagement leave many trapped. Rodriguez made a plea for help from the private sector, which has begun reaching out to collaborate on rescue efforts, specifically for equipment to clear debris.
On Thursday, Rodriguez informed the public via social media that she had discussions with various world leaders, including those from Italy, Qatar, India, Turkey, and Guyana. She specifically acknowledged U.S. leaders and mentioned her conversation with Secretary of State Marco Rubio, which secured U.S. assistance for search and rescue operations.
“I spoke by phone with Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who expressed his solidarity and support for the Venezuelan people during this difficult time,” Rodriguez stated. She thanked him for standing with Venezuela during this challenging situation marked by natural disasters affecting multiple regions.
Rodriguez also extended her thanks to President Trump, highlighting the continuous communication between U.S. authorities and Venezuelan officials over this tragedy. She wrote, “Venezuela will never forget the helping hand extended to its people during this difficult time.”
Interestingly, Rodriguez’s acknowledgment of U.S. support contrasts sharply with her past anti-American rhetoric during her tenure under Maduro. In 2019, when the Trump administration aimed to provide humanitarian aid to Venezuelans, she urged citizens not to accept American assistance, accusing the nation of attempting to poison its population without any evidence to back her claims.
Despite the historical animosity, Trump was among the first global leaders to offer help following the earthquake. He stated, “The United States is ready, willing, and able to help! I have directed all agencies of our government to prepare to act quickly. We are there for our new great friends.”
In the wake of the disaster, Secretary Rubio announced that search and rescue teams from Los Angeles and Fairfax County had already arrived in Venezuela, aiding the situation at the severely damaged Maiquetia Airport.
“The United States stands with the Venezuelan people during this difficult time,” Rubio confirmed, highlighting that the State Department is dispatching immediate support in both medical resources and humanitarian aid.
