Ortega and Murillo abandon Venezuela in its hour of need after earthquakes
Translated from Spanish, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Nicaragua's regime under Ortega and Murillo offered only condolences to Venezuela after recent earthquakes.
- This lack of aid contrasts sharply with the significant assistance provided by dozens of other countries.
- Analysts suggest this apathy signals a rift between Nicaragua and Venezuela's governments, despite past Venezuelan aid to Nicaragua.
Nicaragua's government offered a minute of silence and a public letter of condolence to Venezuela following devastating earthquakes on June 24, 2026, but sent no humanitarian aid. This response, described as apathy by political analysts, starkly contrasts with the extensive support offered by over 27 countries and international organizations.
Analysts interpret Nicaragua's minimal contribution as a sign of a rupture in relations between Daniel Ortega and Rosario Murillo's regime and the Venezuelan government led by Delcy Rodrรญguez. This is particularly notable given that between 2007 and 2018, Nicaragua reportedly received approximately $5 billion in cooperation from Venezuela, according to journalistic investigations.
While Venezuela faces its own crises, numerous nations, including former adversaries like the United States, have mobilized substantial aid. This includes rescue brigades, medical supplies, food, and financial assistance totaling hundreds of millions of dollars. Central American neighbors like El Salvador and Costa Rica have also dispatched significant rescue teams and humanitarian aid, highlighting Nicaragua's isolation in its response.
Originally published by Confidencial in Spanish. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.