Death Toll Rises to 1,430; Still missing 69,000 People

The death toll from Venezuela's twin earthquakes climbed past 1,430 on Saturday, three days after the devastating 7.2 and 7.5 magnitude quakes struck the coastal region of La Guaira and parts of Caracas. Families reported nearly 69,000 people still missing.

More than 1,600 foreign rescuers from the United States, Mexico, Brazil, El Salvador, France and other nations joined local volunteers in searching through rubble. Aid agencies warn that the first 72 hours are critical for finding survivors alive a deadline that has now passed.

The response by Venezuela's own government drew sharp public anger. Many residents said soldiers and officials took photographs at collapsed sites but did little practical work. Frustrated crowds blocked heavy equipment from leaving one site. "They came to eat and take pictures," said one man who had spent three days searching by hand.

Acting President Delcy Rodríguez said over 14,000 security personnel were deployed, but survivors in disaster zones said they saw little evidence of meaningful government support.

The US Geological Survey estimated the quakes could ultimately claim more than 10,000 lives, which would make them among the deadliest in Latin America in a century. The US has already committed $150 million in aid, with hundreds of millions more expected within days. A US Navy ship is stationed offshore to receive injured survivors.

Pope Leo offered prayers in Rome and urged lasting global solidarity with Venezuela.

The disaster is a major political test for Rodríguez, who took office after former President Nicolás Maduro was removed by US authorities in January, amid an already fragile economy and widespread public distrust.