Venezuela’s Earthquake Death Toll Rises to 2,595 Amid

Venezuela's acting President Delcy Rodríguez defended her government's response to the recent twin earthquakes, stating that immediate action was taken following the disaster. On Thursday, she reported that the death toll has risen to 2,595, with over 12,400 individuals injured. Thousands remain missing, and search and rescue operations continue, though hopes of finding more survivors have diminished. Rodríguez criticized claims of a slow response, labeling them as

narratives manufactured in propaganda laboratories

. The International Rescue Committee has indicated that the humanitarian response is insufficient to meet the needs of those affected.

Government Response

Rodríguez announced that the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank will provide financial assistance for recovery efforts. A reconstruction fund of $200 million is being established in collaboration with the IMF. This funding aims to support contractors in rebuilding homes that were destroyed in the earthquakes. The situation remains dire, with many survivors sleeping in crowded shelters or outdoors, raising concerns about potential outbreaks of infectious diseases amid an existing medical crisis.

Ongoing Challenges

As recovery efforts progress, the Venezuelan government faces scrutiny over its handling of the disaster. Critics argue that the response has been disorganized and inadequate, further complicating the situation for those affected. The government continues to emphasize its commitment to recovery, despite the challenges ahead. Rodríguez stated,

We did not wait one day, two days or three days. We activated immediately.

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