The Venezuelan government on Monday announced that the number of confirmed deaths from two earthquakes that struck the country in June has risen to 6,125. The update was provided as the government’s post-disaster response continues.
National Assembly President Jorge Rodriguez released the figures in a statement on August 2, 2026. He also reported that 61,000 people had been treated in hospitals for injuries related to the earthquakes. The magnitude 7.2 and 7.5 seismic events occurred on June 24, with the most significant impact reported in the coastal state of La Guaira and the capital city, Caracas.
In his announcement, Rodriguez stated that cleanup operations were underway, with 16.5 percent of the debris from the affected areas removed.
The government’s management of the earthquake’s aftermath has been met with criticism from some residents in the affected regions. In the days following the quakes, some individuals expressed concerns regarding the speed and scope of assistance provided by government and military personnel.
The financial scope of the damage has also been assessed by international bodies. A report from the World Bank estimated the physical damage caused by the earthquakes to be nearly $20 billion. Following the events, multiple countries offered support for Venezuela’s recovery.
Discussions surrounding international aid coincide with existing U.S. economic sanctions imposed during the administration of former President Nicolas Maduro, some of which remain in effect. According to reports, some advocacy groups have called for the easing or removal of these sanctions to facilitate financial aid and reconstruction funds for the country. The U.S. role in the region has been a subject of international focus since a military operation in January that led to Maduro’s removal from office.
The current government, led by interim President Delcy Rodriguez, is overseeing the recovery and reconstruction efforts.
