Spain confirms 68 nationals still missing after Venezuela earthquakes

Sixty-eight Spanish citizens are still missing in Venezuela following the devastating earthquakes, Spanish Foreign Minister José Manuel Albares confirmed Thursday. The minister provided this update during a stopover on the royal flight to Mexico.

Albares stated that his ministry is working to create a census of the Spanish community in Venezuela, which numbers around 150,000 people. He urged those who have not yet contacted the embassy or consulate to check their social media for emergency contact information. This advice also extends to Spaniards temporarily in Venezuela.

The Spanish consulate in Caracas suffered significant damage from the seismic events, while the embassy also sustained some damage, though less severe. The earthquakes have resulted in at least 164 deaths and over 900 injuries.

Spain is preparing to send urgent aid, including a contingent from the Military Emergencies Unit (UME) and personnel from the Spanish Agency for International Development Cooperation (AECID). This aid package will include essential supplies like blankets, mats, and water purification tablets. The operation is scheduled to depart for Valencia, Venezuela, as the Caracas airport remains closed.