Venezuela earthquake toll rises as rescue efforts wind down

The death toll from the devastating earthquakes that struck northern Venezuela on June 24 has risen to 2,645 as of July 4, with 12,666 injured, as rescue operations wind down and international teams begin to withdraw Source: infobae. The official count rose from 2,595 reported the previous day Source: infobae.

What happened

Two powerful earthquakes hit the northern coast of Venezuela on June 24, causing widespread destruction, particularly in Caracas and La Guaira. The government of acting President Delcy Rodríguez has faced criticism over its response, which some have called slow and chaotic. Rodríguez defended the government's actions, denying accusations of concealing the true death toll or that poor construction of social housing worsened the disaster Source: euronewses.

International impact

• At least 29 Spanish citizens were among the dead, according to Spanish media Source: euronewses.
• The earthquakes have hampered Venezuela's political transition, pausing institutional reforms and the path to elections, while the interim government focuses on the emergency Source: infobae.
• International rescue teams are starting to leave as chances of finding survivors diminish, shifting focus to aid for thousands of displaced and funding reconstruction Source: infobae.

Controversy and criticism

Acting President Rodríguez has faced questions over the official balance and the quality of building construction. She rejected claims that the government is hiding the full extent of casualties Source: euronewses. Meanwhile, the disaster has compounded the country's existing political and economic crises.