68 Spanish nationals unlocated after Venezuela earthquakes, says Albares

Spanish Foreign Minister José Manuel Albares has reported that 68 Spanish nationals remain unaccounted for after the powerful earthquakes that struck Venezuela, causing significant damage to the Spanish Consulate in Caracas. In an audio message from the Dominican Republic, where he was accompanying King Felipe VI on a trip to Mexico, Albares confirmed the number and stated that he had spoken by phone with Venezuelan Foreign Minister Yvan Gil. Source: ABC.es / Infobae

Unlocated citizens

Albares urged all Spanish citizens in Venezuela who have not yet contacted the embassy or consulate to do so via emergency phone lines and to follow official social media channels for updates. He extended the same appeal to Spanish travelers passing through the country. About 200,000 Spaniards reside in Venezuela. Authorities have confirmed the death of Alazne Solabarrieta, a Spanish citizen of Basque origin. Source: ABC.es

Consulate damage and response

The Consulate building in Caracas suffered "considerable damage" (Albares), while the Embassy building experienced less severe damage. Both remain fully operational. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs' crisis unit is monitoring the situation and working to establish a census of the Spanish community's status. Source: Infobae