Venezuela's interim president faces criticism over earthquake response
Twin earthquakes in Venezuela have killed nearly 1,500 people and left tens of thousands missing, prompting accusations that President Delcy Rodríguez's government has responded slowly and inadequately.
The death toll from Wednesday's twin earthquakes in Venezuela is approaching 1,500, with about 50,000 people listed as missing on a crowdsourcing platform. Rescue efforts are ongoing, but many residents say government teams have been slow to reach the hardest-hit coastal state of La Guaira.
Interim President Delcy Rodríguez declared a state of emergency and appealed for international assistance, yet observers describe the response as uneven. "The government response is anything from totally non-existent to, at best, completely inadequate," said Phil Gunson, senior analyst at the International Crisis Group.
More than 20 foreign rescue teams, including units from El Salvador, Spain, Qatar and the United States, have arrived, but critics argue the aid has not compensated for systemic weaknesses. Gunson added that Venezuela’s long-standing economic crisis has left emergency services without sufficient budgets, personnel, equipment, leadership and planning.
Social media users have reported delays in the entry of foreign crews, citing a Colombian firefighting team that was detained at the main airport for several hours. The Rodríguez administration has also restricted access to disaster zones, requiring permits for entry and escorting journalists on government buses.
Local volunteers are digging through rubble with hand tools, expressing frustration at the lack of official assistance. "It’s absurd. They have been so slow like always," said Mairet Perez, a resident of La Guaira, while waiting for a bus to Caracas.
A non-governmental organization worker, who asked to remain unnamed, said most sectors of society have organized donations, but noted the military’s limited presence compared with its visibility after the 2024 presidential election.
Political analysts note that the crisis tests Rodríguez’s six-month tenure and could influence future electoral dynamics. Javier Corrales, a political scientist at Amherst College, said the president is unpopular outside the ruling party and is viewed by some as responsible for the country’s broader problems.
Engineering experts point to weaknesses in building inspections and construction standards that may have contributed to the collapse of structures. Civil engineer José Norberto Baussan said while seismic-resistant codes exist, enforcement is often ineffective.
The humanitarian situation remains severe, with many families still searching for missing relatives and survivors facing loss of shelter and basic services.