CARACAS: Venezuela’s death toll from the twin earthquakes that struck on June 24 has risen to 3,811, National Assembly President Jorge Rodriguez announced on Wednesday.
Authorities said 16,740 people have been injured, while 17,907 residents have been displaced and remain homeless following the disaster.
Why Is Venezuela Calling for Sanctions Relief?
Interim President Delcy Rodriguez renewed calls for international sanctions on Venezuela to be eased, arguing that frozen overseas assets could help finance reconstruction efforts.
Speaking on state television, Rodriguez said Venezuela had sufficient resources held abroad to support rebuilding if blocked funds were released.
“Venezuela has resources blocked around the world that could address this process of reconstruction,” she said, adding that funding was also needed for employment and education programmes.
What Sanctions Remain on Venezuela?
The United States, the European Union and several other countries imposed sanctions on Venezuela over the past two decades, citing concerns over democratic governance and allegations of drug trafficking.
Although Washington earlier this year eased some restrictions on Venezuela’s oil sector after the capture of President Nicolas Maduro, many sanctions remain in force.
Following the June earthquakes, the United States authorised a four-month exemption allowing transactions related to humanitarian relief and earthquake recovery that would otherwise be prohibited under existing sanctions.
What International Assistance Is Venezuela Seeking?
Delcy Rodriguez said she had written to King Charles requesting the release of Venezuelan gold reserves held by the Bank of England.
She also confirmed discussions with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) regarding the possible release of financial assistance for reconstruction.
The Bank of England continues to withhold approximately 31 tonnes of Venezuelan gold, which remains at the centre of a long-running legal dispute in British courts.
What Comes Next for Venezuela?
The Venezuelan government is seeking greater international financial access to accelerate reconstruction as rescue, relief and recovery operations continue across earthquake-affected regions.
Officials say additional funding will be critical to rebuilding infrastructure, restoring public services and supporting thousands of displaced families.