Venezuela earthquakes kill 188, injure over 1,500; US pledges $150 million in aid

Venezuela has been hit by two powerful earthquakes, resulting in a significant loss of life and widespread damage. Jorge Rodriguez, the speaker of Venezuela's National Assembly, reported that at least 188 people have died and over 1,520 have been injured. The tremors, with magnitudes of 7.2 and 7.5, struck in quick succession in northern Venezuela, causing buildings to collapse and trapping many individuals beneath rubble.

In response to the disaster, the United States has pledged $150 million in aid. The State Department detailed that this assistance includes $50 million in direct funding for local aid organizations and a $100 million contribution to the United Nations' humanitarian fund. International organizations and humanitarian groups are also accelerating their efforts to provide support.

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She is currently in La Guaira state to understand the local disaster situation.

Temporary President Delcy Rodriguez visited the most severely affected coastal areas, including La Guaira state, to assess the damage. However, the situation on the ground has also seen instances of lawlessness. Journalists observed looting in La Guaira, with groups of people seen taking goods from a partially burned supermarket in the coastal town of Catia La Mar. The full extent of the damage and the humanitarian needs are still being assessed.

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At least one store was looted in the La Guaira region.