Nearly 5,000 people have died in two earthquakes that struck Venezuela in June, with the United Nations estimating that up to 50,000 individuals may still be missing and feared buried under rubble. Lawmaker Jorge Rodriguez announced on Thursday, July 16th, 2026, that the confirmed death toll has risen to 4,930.

The UN is now seeking $300 million to support victims of the earthquakes as the country shifts focus toward rebuilding efforts. However, recovery remains uncertain amid ongoing challenges.

Mark Weisbrot, senior economist and co-director at the Center for Economic and Policy Research, stated, “Venezuela has crucial resources that it is not being allowed to access.” This highlights concerns over economic sanctions impacting the nation's ability to recover.

Earlier in the week, 14 Democratic lawmakers in the United States sent a letter to the White House urging the easing of economic sanctions on Venezuela to facilitate recovery efforts, according to a report by the Spanish newspaper El Pais.

Meanwhile, some survivors report receiving little to no assistance, relying solely on their own efforts for support.

Sources