SouthernWorldwide.com – President Donald Trump stated late Wednesday that two powerful earthquakes that struck Venezuela had resulted in what he described as “a devastating number of deaths” as officials continued to assess the disaster’s impact.
Venezuela’s interim President Delcy Rodríguez later reported that at least 32 people were killed and over 700 were injured in the earthquakes, marking the country’s first official casualty figures.
Trump’s remarks followed back-to-back earthquakes that rocked Venezuela earlier on Wednesday, causing extensive damage, including in the capital, Caracas, where buildings sustained damage and rescue teams were seen sifting through rubble.
In a post on Truth Social, Trump characterized the pair of “massive” earthquakes as having caused widespread devastation.
“The two major earthquakes that just hit the great people of Venezuela are both massive in scale and have left a devastating number of deaths,” Trump wrote.
Trump also indicated that the United States was prepared to offer assistance in the ongoing response efforts.
“The U.S.A. stands ready, willing, and able to help!” Trump stated. “I have instructed all agencies of our government to get ready to move quickly. We will be there for our new and great friends.”
Trump further commented that early reports emerging from Venezuela were “not good.”
According to the U.S. Geological Survey, an initial earthquake with a magnitude of 7.2 struck at 6:04 p.m. ET, with its epicenter located approximately 15 miles east-northeast of San Felipe.
A mere 39 seconds later, a magnitude 7.5 earthquake occurred, with its epicenter situated about 14 miles southeast of Yumare.
“High casualties and extensive damage are probable, and the disaster is likely widespread,” the USGS stated in a rare red alert declaration.
Officials noted that the earthquakes were among the most powerful to hit Venezuela in over a century.
Rodríguez declared a state of emergency on Wednesday following the earthquakes, which were succeeded by nearly two dozen aftershocks.
In a televised address later that day, Rodríguez urged Venezuelans to maintain their composure.
“We urge our population to remain calm,” Rodríguez said. “We urge unity.”
On Thursday, Rodríguez announced the grim toll of at least 32 fatalities and more than 700 injuries resulting from the earthquakes.
“We urge our population to remain calm,” Rodríguez reiterated. “We urge unity.”
U.S. Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau shared on X that American officials were in communication with Venezuelan authorities and were working to deliver aid to the South American nation.
“The U.S. stands with the Venezuelan people in the aftermath of this evening’s devastating earthquakes,” he wrote. “We’re in touch with the authorities and mobilizing assistance.”
The State Department’s Bureau of Western Hemisphere Affairs confirmed it was monitoring developments in the wake of the powerful earthquakes.
“The U.S. Government is closely monitoring the aftermath of a large earthquake in Venezuela,” the bureau stated in a release.
“We extend our deepest condolences to the victims and are committed to supporting the people of Venezuela during this difficult time,” the statement continued.
The bureau also advised U.S. citizens present in Venezuela to enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) and to keep track of updates from the embassy.
