32 Killed as Twin Powerful Earthquakes Devastate Venezuela

At least 32 people have been killed and more than 700 injured after two powerful earthquakes struck Venezuela’s northern coast late Wednesday, prompting authorities to declare a state of emergency as international offers of assistance began to emerge, including support pledged by U.S. President Donald Trump.

According to the United States Geological Survey (USGS), the first earthquake, measuring 7.2 magnitude, struck at approximately 6:04 p.m. local time with its epicenter about 16 miles from San Felipe. Less than a minute later, a second 7.5-magnitude earthquake hit roughly 19 miles from the same city, which has a population of about 220,000.

Acting President Delcy Rodriguez confirmed that at least 32 people had died and 700 others were injured, while cautioning that the casualty count is expected to increase as rescue efforts continue. Rodriguez, who has led Venezuela since Nicholas Maduro was captured by U.S. soldiers during a January raid, declared a nationwide state of emergency in a televised address and expressed condolences to families “who have unfortunately suffered the loss of a family member.”

The powerful tremors caused multiple buildings to collapse and triggered widespread damage and power outages in Caracas, located about 200 miles from the quakes’ epicenter.

In a post on Truth Social, President Donald Trump said the earthquakes were “both massive in scale” and had resulted in significant loss of life. He added that the United States was “ready, willing, and able to help,” stating that he had instructed federal agencies to prepare for a rapid response. Trump also noted that early reports from the disaster zone were not encouraging.

Other U.S. officials also expressed support for Venezuela. Energy Secretary Chris Wright said his thoughts and prayers were with those affected, offering condolences to families who lost loved ones and wishing a swift recovery to impacted communities. Separately, Dylan Johnson, the Assistant Secretary of State for Global Public Affairs, said the U.S. Department of State was closely monitoring developments, extended condolences to the victims, reaffirmed support for the Venezuelan people, and confirmed that all U.S. Embassy personnel in Caracas were safe.

International leaders also pledged assistance following the disaster. Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva said he had directed his country’s foreign ministry to evaluate the situation and determine what aid Brazil could provide, reaffirming support for Acting President Delcy Rodriguez and recovery efforts. Ecuadorian President Daniel Noboa announced the immediate delivery of humanitarian aid, saying that “despite our enormous differences, humanity must always guide a leader’s actions.” Presidents Raúl Mulino of Panama and Nayib Bukele of El Salvador also offered assistance to Venezuela.