An international relief effort is gathering momentum after twin earthquakes struck Venezuela, leaving at least 235 people dead and more than 1,500 injured,
while rescue workers race against time to find survivors trapped beneath collapsed buildings. Governments across the world have begun mobilising humanitarian assistance, search-and-rescue teams and emergency supplies as Venezuela grapples with one of the deadliest natural disasters in its recent history. The two powerful earthquakes, measuring 7.2 and 7.5 magnitude, struck northern Venezuela within less than a minute of each other on Wednesday night, according to the United States Geological Survey (USGS). The twin tremors caused extensive destruction across Caracas and neighbouring regions, flattening buildings, damaging roads and disrupting critical infrastructure. As emergency crews continue digging through mountains of debris, authorities have warned that powerful aftershocks remain possible. Health Minister Carlos Alvarado said the confirmed death toll has risen to 235, while hundreds remain hospitalised and rescue operations continue across multiple disaster zones. The humanitarian challenge has been compounded by significant damage to Caracas' main international airport, creating logistical difficulties for relief flights carrying emergency personnel and supplies into the country.
US, India, Iran And Europe Mobilise Humanitarian Assistance
The United States has announced one of the largest international aid packages so far, committing $150 million in emergency assistance alongside military transport assets. According to officials, two US warships, transport aircraft and helicopters are being deployed to support relief operations.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio described the response as a "whole-of-government" effort that would be "big, fast and effective." President Donald Trump also expressed support for Venezuela, saying Washington would stand by the country during its recovery.
India also offered immediate assistance, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressing condolences to the Venezuelan people and reaffirming New Delhi's readiness to provide humanitarian support.
"On behalf of the people of India, I extend our heartfelt condolences to the Government and people of Venezuela, especially to the families who have lost their loved ones. We pray for the speedy recovery of those injured and stand in solidarity with all those affected during this difficult time. India stands ready to extend all possible assistance," Modi said in a message posted on X.
Iran joined the growing list of countries offering aid. Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi expressed solidarity with Venezuela and said Tehran stood ready to provide full assistance following the disaster. China also indicated it was prepared to provide support according to Venezuela's requirements. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun said Beijing was willing to extend appropriate assistance after confirming that two Chinese nationals were among those killed.
European leaders similarly conveyed solidarity. Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez pledged Spain's full support for the Venezuelan people, while Italy's Giorgia Meloni, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz and the French government also expressed condolences. French officials confirmed that their embassy building in Caracas sustained damage during the earthquakes.
Rescue Operations Continue Amid Infrastructure Damage
Rescue teams continued searching through collapsed buildings on Thursday as hopes of finding additional survivors gradually diminished. Witnesses described scenes of widespread destruction, with damaged apartment blocks, collapsed commercial buildings and cracked roads stretching across affected districts of Caracas and nearby cities.
Authorities acknowledged that the destruction of key transport infrastructure, particularly the capital's airport, could delay the arrival of international rescue teams and humanitarian supplies. Emergency engineers are working to restore limited operations while relief flights are being prioritised wherever possible.
Meanwhile, Starlink announced it would provide one month of free satellite internet service to both new and existing customers across Venezuela, a move expected to help restore communications in areas where conventional networks have been disrupted.
Officials also warned residents to remain alert as aftershocks continue across northern Venezuela. Emergency shelters have been established for thousands of displaced families, while international rescue specialists are expected to reinforce local response efforts over the coming days.
