WASHINGTON, D.C. June 25, 2026 — President Donald J. Trump announced that the United States stands ready to provide swift humanitarian assistance to Venezuela after two powerful earthquakes struck the country on Wednesday evening, causing widespread destruction, building collapses, and a significant loss of life.
In a statement shared by the White House on X (formerly Twitter), Trump described the quakes as “massive in scale” and noted the “devastating number of deaths.” He added: “The U.S.A. stands ready, willing, and able to help! I have instructed all agencies of our government to get ready to move quickly. We will be there for our new and great friends. Early reports are not good!!!”
The earthquakes, a 7.2-magnitude foreshock followed seconds later by a 7.5-magnitude mainshock, struck near Morón in Yaracuy state along the Boconó fault system on June 24 at approximately 6:04 p.m. local time. The shallow quakes heavily impacted Caracas and surrounding areas, with reports of collapsed buildings in neighborhoods such as San Bernardino, Baruta, Los Palos Grandes, and Altamira.
Venezuelan authorities declared a nationwide state of emergency across multiple states. Confirmed casualties include at least dozens of deaths and hundreds of injuries, though the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) has warned that the toll could rise significantly higher — potentially into the tens of thousands — due to aging infrastructure and the urban density of affected regions. Rescue operations are underway amid ongoing aftershocks.
U.S. officials have already begun mobilizing resources. The State Department confirmed it is coordinating with Venezuelan authorities to deploy search and rescue teams, medical supplies, humanitarian aid, and other critical resources in the coming days.
This offer of assistance comes amid Venezuela’s political transition following the removal of the Maduro regime earlier this year. Trump has referred to the Venezuelan people as “new and great friends” of the United States, signaling a warming in bilateral relations.
International response has been swift, with several Latin American nations also pledging support. Residents in Caracas remain outdoors in many areas, fearing further tremors.
As recovery efforts intensify, the scale of the disaster continues to unfold. U.S. agencies are preparing for rapid deployment to support search-and-rescue missions and provide immediate relief to those affected.
This is a developing story. Updates will follow as more information becomes available.
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