The death toll from the twin earthquakes that struck Venezuela has risen to 3,342, according to the latest figures released by the country’s Information Ministry on Sunday.
Authorities said 16,470 people have been injured, while the number of those left homeless has climbed to 17,345 as rescue and recovery operations continue in the hardest-hit areas.
During a speech marking Venezuela’s 215th Independence Day, interim President Delcy Rodriguez defended the government’s response to the disaster following growing public criticism over what many described as a delayed and inadequate relief effort.
Rodriguez said the government deployed security forces immediately after the earthquakes struck and announced the formation of a new military unit dedicated to responding to emergencies and natural disasters.
Search-and-rescue teams remain on the ground as authorities continue clearing debris, searching for survivors and delivering humanitarian assistance to affected communities.
The twin earthquakes, which struck on June 24, caused widespread destruction across parts of Venezuela, leaving thousands displaced and damaging homes, buildings and critical infrastructure.
