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'Deeply saddened': Venezuela earthquake kills at least 32, PM Modi says India ready to help

Two strong earthquakes measuring 7.2 and 7.5 in magnitude struck Venezuela on Wednesday evening, causing damage across several states and triggering panic among residents.

By Trisha Katyayan

Jun 25, 2026 11:10 IST

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday expressed condolences over the devastation caused by the powerful earthquakes that struck Venezuela and said India was ready to provide all possible assistance.

"Deeply saddened by the devastation caused by the severe earthquakes in Venezuela," Modi said in a post on X while extending condolences to the Venezuelan government and families of those killed in the disaster.

"India stands ready to extend all possible assistance," he added, while wishing a speedy recovery to those injured and expressing solidarity with people affected by the earthquakes.



Twin quakes cause widespread damage

Two strong earthquakes measuring 7.2 and 7.5 in magnitude struck Venezuela on Wednesday evening, causing damage across several states and triggering panic among residents.

Also Read | 'USA stands ready': Trump orders agencies to prepare aid after Venezuela earthquakes

Acting Venezuelan President Delcy Rodríguez said early Thursday that at least 32 people were killed and more than 700 injured after two powerful earthquakes struck the country on Wednesday evening.

Rodríguez cautioned that the death toll could increase as rescue teams continue searching through collapsed structures and emergency responders work to access some of the hardest-hit areas.

The tremors were felt across a wide region, forcing people to run out of homes and office buildings as structures shook. Rescue teams have been deployed to affected areas, while authorities continue to assess the extent of the destruction.

“We urge our population to remain calm,” Rodríguez said. “We urge unity.”

Airport shut, classes suspended

The earthquakes damaged key infrastructure, including Simón Bolívar International Airport, Venezuela's main aviation hub. Authorities suspended airport operations following the disaster.

Rodríguez also announced that classes would remain suspended for several days as safety inspections and damage assessments continue.

Residents in Caracas rushed onto the streets as buildings swayed during the tremors. According to reports, some walls collapsed, exposing the interiors of buildings, while dust clouds rose over several neighbourhoods.



Tremors felt beyond Venezuela

The impact of the earthquakes extended beyond Venezuela, with buildings evacuated in parts of Brazil's Amazon region, nearly 1,700 kilometres from Caracas.

Also Read | Is the US coast under tsunami threat after earthquakes in Venezuela and Japan?

Although Venezuela lies between the South American and Caribbean tectonic plates, major earthquakes are relatively rare in the country compared with nations along the Pacific Ring of Fire.

Authorities continue rescue and assessment operations as officials work to determine the full extent of the damage caused by one of the strongest earthquakes to hit Venezuela in more than a century.

FAQs:

What did PM Modi say about the Venezuela earthquake?

PM Modi expressed condolences and said India stands ready to provide assistance.

Has India offered help to Venezuela?

Yes, PM Modi said India is ready to extend all possible assistance to Venezuela.

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