US Sends Emergency Aid to Venezuela Amid Rising Earthquake Death Toll

Fox News correspondent Nate Foy reports from the debris fields of Caracas, documenting rescue efforts after two significant earthquakes struck Venezuela. The quakes, with magnitudes of 7.2 and 7.5, have left a heavy toll on the nation.

The death toll has surpassed 1,400, and over 68,900 people are unaccounted for. Search-and-rescue teams, including the U.S. military, are racing to save survivors trapped in a collapsed 17-story high-rise, as the critical 72-hour rescue window quickly approaches.

During the past weekend, 33 individuals were rescued from the wreckage. Despite these efforts, authorities warned that time is limited for nearly 50,000 more people feared missing. As of late Saturday, the Associated Press reported that 1,430 people had died, over 3,000 sustained injuries, and many are now residing in shelters.

The coastal La Guaira state faces the worst destruction. Entire apartment buildings, hotels, and public housing have been leveled. The region experienced hundreds of aftershocks following the initial quakes, making rescue operations difficult and leaving survivors exposed to the heat.

Among the rescued were an infant found alive by U.S. teams, an 11-year-old boy located by Colombian rescuers, and another 11-year-old saved by Mexican crew efforts in Caraballeda.

“In these hours, each life is hope for Venezuela,” Acting President Delcy Rodríguez shared on X.

Swiss rescue-team leader Sebastian Eugster informed Reuters that chances of finding survivors decrease significantly after the initial 72 hours. As of Saturday evening, this vital window had closed.

There remains significant uncertainty about the number of missing individuals. The government has acknowledged hundreds as missing or trapped, though estimates vary widely. Families reported 68,900 missing as of Saturday, reflecting difficulties in communication and tracking the affected population.

In response to the crisis, Starlink has provided communication services. “Starlink Mobile is offering free connectivity to MovistarVe customers in La Guaira, and efforts are underway to extend service to DigitelAyuda and Movilnet_ve users,” Starlink announced on X. This service aims to maintain communication through SMS where terrestrial networks are down, requiring a clear sky view for optimal reception.

Pope Leo expressed his support for the victims, saying, “I wish to express my closeness to the Venezuelan sisters and brothers affected by the recent earthquakes that caused numerous victims and injuries.” His message was delivered before worshippers in Rome during the Angelus prayer.

The information in this report comes from the Associated Press and Reuters. Eric Mack, a breaking news reporter, provides coverage across politics, elections, and international events.