Venezuela earthquake death toll nears 3,000 as rescue efforts wind down

The death toll from Venezuela's recent twin earthquakes has risen to 2,954, with international rescue teams beginning to conclude their search operations for survivors. The disaster, which occurred on June 24, left thousands homeless, particularly in the coastal La Guaira area north of Caracas, where many residential complexes were destroyed. Ten days after the 7.2 and 7.5 magnitude quakes, the critical 72-hour window for rescues has passed, though some individuals were found alive this week. Interim President Delcy Rodriquez held a ceremony to honor international teams, acknowledging the profound grief gripping the nation. While international teams, including those from the US and South America, are wrapping up their efforts, many Venezuelans have expressed dissatisfaction with the government's initial response. Rodriquez defended the government's actions, stating that thousands of troops and officials were deployed. In La Guaira, heavy machinery is now being used to demolish collapsed structures, while some families are still attempting to recover bodies for burial. Over 16,000 Venezuelans have lost their homes, and hospitals are strained, raising concerns about potential disease outbreaks.