09/07/2026 13:20 - Internacionales
On July 9, 2026, Venezuela's Acting President, Delcy Rodriguez, made an urgent appeal to the international community to address the devastating crisis following the double earthquake on June 24, 2026. In a bold diplomatic move, Rodriguez asked King Charles III to release USD 1.9 billion in gold blocked at the Bank of England.
Alongside the request to the British monarch, the Venezuelan government also claimed USD 5.1 billion from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) to face damages caused by the 7.2 and 7.5 magnitude quakes that struck the La Guaira region. To kickstart works, the National Executive has already created an initial fund of USD 200 million.
According to the updated balance as of July 8, 2026, the earthquake has left fatal consequences in the Caribbean nation:
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) estimated material damages at an astronomical figure: USD 6.7 billion.
The Acting President summoned foreign companies for an aggressive housing construction drive to relocate nearly 18,000 victims who lost their homes. To speed up the process, the UN has supported importing prefabricated houses that can be quickly assembled in the hardest-hit zones.
The La Guaira region was declared 'ground zero' of the disaster, where 190 buildings collapsed and another 856 structures were affected. To restore economic normalcy, authorities seek to reactivate commerce and services in the region's port and airport, with businesses in Maiquetia practically operational.
Despite the magnitude of the tragedy, the citizen and international response has been massive. Over 29,500 personnel and 28,300 volunteers were deployed for rescue tasks. Examples of hope like Fabiana Blanco (12), rescued alive after 32 hours under the rubble, light the way for a country fighting to rebuild with the help of nations like Argentina, which sent 16 tons of aid and medical equipment.
Alfredo S. Quiroga
