Venezuela earthquake (AP)
Venezuela’s acting President Delcy Rodríguez on Thursday thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi for expressing condolences and offering assistance after two powerful earthquakes struck near Caracas, causing widespread damage and triggering large-scale rescue operations.Responding to PM Modi’s message on X, Rodríguez said Venezuela welcomed India’s support and solidarity during the ongoing humanitarian crisis. “We warmly welcome the remarks by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who expressed his condolences and the Republic of India’s willingness to support relief efforts in the wake of the severe consequences of the earthquakes that struck our country,” she said.Highlighting bilateral ties, she added that the solidarity shown by India was consistent with the longstanding cooperation between the peoples of both nations.”The solidarity expressed by India is in keeping with the spirit of cooperation between our peoples in times of difficulty. We acknowledge these expressions of international support and are grateful for the expressions of solidarity we have received,” Rodríguez said.PM Modi expresses condolences, offers assistanceEarlier, PM Modi expressed deep sorrow over the devastation caused by the earthquakes and extended condolences to the victims’ families. “Deeply saddened by the devastation caused by the severe earthquakes in Venezuela,” he wrote on X.”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,” he added.Twin earthquakes trigger state of emergencyThe messages came after two powerful earthquakes struck the same region near Venezuela’s capital, Caracas.According to the United States Geological Survey (USGS), the tremors caused significant structural damage, with several buildings collapsing in affected areas.Following the disaster, acting President Rodríguez declared a nationwide state of emergency as authorities launched rescue and relief operations across multiple regions.Global support pours inItaly’s Meloni expressed ‘heartfelt solidarity’ with Venezuela. She wrote authorities are following the situation with “deep concern” and working to “promptly activate every channel of humanitarian aid.US President Donald Trump also offered immediate American assistance to Venezuela following the disaster.In a post on Truth Social, Trump said the earthquakes had caused a devastating loss of life and instructed US agencies to prepare for rapid deployment of aid if required. Venezuela also thanked the Trump administration for its “support and solidarity”. Rodriguez said it has “been in constant contact with Venezuelan authorities” during the crisis.
