Caribbean nations express solidarity as powerful earthquakes rock Venezuela
Key Points(5)
- Governments across the Caribbean have expressed condolences and pledged support to Venezuela following a pair of powerful earthquakes that struck off the South American country’s coast on Wednesday, causing widespread damage and triggering regional concern.
- The Government and people of Jamaica said they were “profoundly saddened” by the disaster, which struck on the evening of June 24, and extended condolences to those affected.
- “On behalf of the people of Jamaica, we extend our deepest condolences to the Government and the people of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela,” a statement said.
- “Our hearts are with the families who have lost loved ones, with the injured, and with the many still searching for those trapped beneath the rubble.” Jamaica said the country stood in full solidarity with Venezuela, noting the shared experience of natural disasters across the Caribbean.
- “As a Caribbean nation that knows well the suddenness with which natural disaster can visit our region, Jamaica stands in full solidarity with Venezuela in this hour of grief and recovery,” the statement added.
Governments across the Caribbean have expressed condolences and pledged support to Venezuela following a pair of powerful earthquakes that struck off the South American country’s coast on Wednesday, causing widespread damage and triggering regional concern.
The Government and people of Jamaica said they were “profoundly saddened” by the disaster, which struck on the evening of June 24, and extended condolences to those affected.
“On behalf of the people of Jamaica, we extend our deepest condolences to the Government and the people of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela,” a statement said. “Our hearts are with the families who have lost loved ones, with the injured, and with the many still searching for those trapped beneath the rubble.”
Jamaica said the country stood in full solidarity with Venezuela, noting the shared experience of natural disasters across the Caribbean.
“As a Caribbean nation that knows well the suddenness with which natural disaster can visit our region, Jamaica stands in full solidarity with Venezuela in this hour of grief and recovery,” the statement added. “Jamaica stands ready to support the relief and recovery effort in whatever way it can.”
The Government of Trinidad and Tobago also issued a statement of support through its Ministry of Foreign and CARICOM Affairs, saying it stood with Venezuela and was prepared to assist where possible.
“The Government of Trinidad and Tobago stands prepared to provide any requested support and assistance to the Venezuelan authorities, where possible,” the ministry said.
It added that the country was mindful of the region’s vulnerability to natural disasters and was closely monitoring developments through its diplomatic mission in Caracas, which it said remained operational and not significantly affected.
“The people of Trinidad and Tobago cherish the fraternal bond with the people of Venezuela,” the ministry said, underscoring long-standing bilateral ties.
The statements came as reports indicated significant destruction following two major earthquakes west of Caracas. According to the United States Geological Survey (USGS), a magnitude 7.2 quake was followed less than a minute later by a 7.5 magnitude tremor.
Local authorities reported building collapses and ongoing rescue operations, though an official national death toll had not been confirmed as of Wednesday evening. Early estimates from USGS models suggested casualties could potentially be in the thousands, though the situation remained fluid.
A tsunami warning issued shortly after the quakes was later lifted, easing fears of further immediate coastal impacts.
Across the region, governments have reiterated calls for solidarity and coordination in the face of natural disasters, reflecting the Caribbean’s shared exposure to seismic and climate-related shocks.
