Venezuela’s acting president, Delcy Rodriguez, has announced a seven-day period of national mourning to honor the victims of the powerful earthquakes that hit the country on June 24. Rodriguez stated, “In honor of the memory of the victims, I have decided to decree National Mourning for seven days, starting at 6:00 p.m. today.” She expressed solidarity with those affected by the tragedy and emphasized Venezuela’s commitment to support and protect them during this difficult time. The earthquakes have resulted in at least 1,943 fatalities and over 10,500 injuries, according to the latest official report.
The Portuguese government has also declared a national day of mourning on Sunday, July 5, in remembrance of the earthquake victims in Venezuela, especially Portuguese nationals and individuals of Portuguese descent. The death toll among Portuguese nationals and those of Portuguese descent has reached 71, including 11 children, with 71 individuals still missing, as per the latest update from Portugal’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The Portuguese community in Venezuela, which is one of the largest in the Portuguese diaspora, has an estimated population of around 1.2 million, including individuals of Portuguese descent.
Following the devastating earthquakes, the Venezuelan National Assembly President, Jorge Rodriguez, announced that La Guaira state, severely impacted by the earthquakes, has been placed under military control to aid in rescue operations and ensure security. Rodriguez highlighted that the Bolivarian National Armed Forces are now fully in charge of La Guaira state to guarantee public safety, maintain order, and support rescue efforts conducted by Venezuelan and international rescue teams. The majority of rescue operations are concentrated in areas like Caraballeda, Macuto, Los Corales, and Catia La Mar, which suffered significant damage from the earthquakes.
