Venezuela prioritizes rescuing people trapped after earthquake

Acting Venezuelan President Delcy Rodríguez declared that the immediate focus for the government and security forces is the rescue of individuals still trapped in debris following a devastating earthquake that struck 72 hours prior. "The rescue of people who are alive is our priority, both from Venezuelan rescuers and from civil protection and other bodies" involved in the tragedy, Rodríguez stated in a broadcast. She did not provide updated figures on fatalities or disappearances.

The earthquake impacted seven Venezuelan states, with La Guaira suffering the most severe damage. Efforts are underway to restore essential services, with 60% of the electrical supply already recovered and work progressing to re-establish potable water. Rodríguez announced that ten additional countries are set to send international aid, which will be integrated into coordinated, round-the-clock rescue efforts during the critical next 72 hours for saving lives.

To ensure the safety of the affected areas and facilitate rescue operations, the government has restricted access to La Guaira. Approximately 14,000 military and police personnel have been deployed to patrol the state continuously, aiming to maintain the necessary tranquility for rescue work. Official figures indicate the twin earthquakes have resulted in at least 920 deaths and 3,360 injuries.