Venezuela in June 2026: the most important developments in society
In June 2026 in Venezuela, two powerful back-to-back earthquakes on 25 June toppled buildings in Caracas and other areas. The US Geological Survey first reported at least 32 dead and more than 700 injured. Venezuela declared a state of emergency, suspending classes and non-essential activities. By 26 June the health ministry counted at least 235 dead and more than 4,300 injured; the toll passed 900 on 27 June, reached 1,430 on 28 June, neared 1,500 on 29 June and surpassed 1,700 on 30 June, with nearly 2,000 feared dead. Between 46,000 and more than 50,000 people were reported missing. A fresh 4.9-magnitude quake struck the north on 27 June. Economic losses were reported at more than $10 billion, and NASA documented damage to 58,000 buildings.
Rescue work continued through the end of the month, with teams from Germany, Italy, Lithuania, Mexico and other countries, a Qatari air bridge, and UN relief. An 11-year-old boy was found alive after 76 hours under rubble, and a father and son were pulled out alive after four days. Hospitals were overwhelmed. Victims included the wife and children of Argentine footballer Lucas Trejo, three members of the Venezuelan Jewish community and Spanish citizens. More than 100 people deported from the United States were reported missing.
Survivors voiced growing frustration over the pace of operations and the government's response. Looting was reported, access to the affected area was restricted, and Delcy Rodríguez was booed during a visit to Caracas. A residents' protest led the military to join the rescue efforts.
by WorldBrief & Maksim Micheliov | AI-generated summary
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