Pope Leo XIV sends aid and solidarity to Venezuela after deadly quakes

Pope Leo XIV sent 100,000 euros in emergency aid and expressed spiritual closeness to Venezuela after two powerful earthquakes struck the country on June 24, killing at least 1,430 people and leaving thousands injured Source: infobae. The pontiff addressed the nation in Spanish during the Sunday Angelus and also at the close of a consistory of cardinals on Saturday, calling for international solidarity Source: elnacionalve.

Statements of solidarity

In his remarks, the Pope said: "Deseo expresar mi cercanía a las hermanas y hermanos venezolanos afectados por los recientes terremotos" Source: lavozar. He prayed for the dead, expressed gratitude to rescue workers, and urged that "no falte la solidaridad de la comunidad internacional" Source: eldiado.

• The Pope spoke in Spanish, emphasizing the "ingentes daños materiales" and the "tragedia" facing the nation Source: heraldodemexico.
• He recognized the work of search and rescue teams, saying, "manifiesto mi gratitud y aliento a cuantos trabajan con generosidad" Source: diariolibree.

Financial aid and calls for action

• The Vatican, through the Apostolic Almoner, sent 100,000 euros (about $114,000) as a first installment of aid Source: excelsiormx.
• The funds are intended for the most urgent needs of those displaced or injured, and will be channeled through local church structures Source: elcaribedr.
• Early official figures from Vice President Delcy Rodríguez reported 164 dead and 971 injured, but later counts from parliament president Jorge Rodríguez raised the death toll to 1,430, with over 3,200 injured Source: infobae; diariolibree.