A series of devastating earthquakes struck north-central Venezuela on Wednesday June 24, 2026.
This, according to reports has caused the widespread destruction, significant casualties, and exacerbating an already dire humanitarian situation.
The European Union has extended its deepest condolences to the victims’ families and expressed unwavering solidarity with the Venezuelan people, pledging readiness to support emergency response efforts.
Reports have it that two powerful earthquakes, preliminarily measured at magnitudes 7.2 and 7.5, struck in rapid succession, with the mainshock preceded by a 7.2 foreshock.
The tremors were felt as far away as Brazil’s Amazon region, over a thousand miles distant.
Initial reports from Acting President Delcy Rodríguez indicated at least 32 fatalities and 700 injuries.
Though subsequent updates from various sources suggest the death toll has risen significantly, with some reports citing at least 164 deaths and hundreds more injured, potentially reaching 971.
Rescue efforts are ongoing, and the casualty figures are expected to climb as emergency teams search through rubble.
The catastrophic events unfold at a time when millions of Venezuelans are already grappling with significant humanitarian needs.
The EU, through the High Representative Kallas and Commissioners Síkela and Lahbib, highlighted this pre-existing
crisis, emphasizing their contact with authorities and readiness to assist.
In response to the disaster, the EU has activated its Copernicus satellite system in emergency mapping mode to aid recovery efforts.
The European Union Civil Protection
Mechanism stands ready to mobilize assistance should a formal request be received.
The EU remains in close communication with its humanitarian partners, prepared to provide all the necessary operational support to address the urgent needs on the ground.