Venezuela Earthquake Toll Hits 3,811 Amid Frozen Funds Move

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A drone captures an aerial view as individuals examine a damaged apartment following the June 24 earthquakes in Macuto, La Guaira state, Venezuela, on July 8, 2026. — Reuters

– Over 16,700 individuals have been injured.
– Nearly 18,000 people have become homeless.
– Venezuela is appealing for the release of gold held by the Bank of England.

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The death toll from Venezuela’s double earthquakes has increased to 3,811, according to figures announced by National Assembly President Jorge Rodriguez on Wednesday. The recent reports indicate 16,740 people have been injured, and 17,907 are now displaced.

Interim President Delcy Rodriguez has once again called for the lifting of international sanctions on Venezuela, emphasizing that the country possesses enough overseas assets to aid in reconstruction if inaccessible accounts are freed. She stated on state television, VTV, that Venezuela’s resources are blocked around the world, which hampers recovery efforts. She also mentioned that additional funds are necessary for employment and educational programs.

For two decades, the US, European Union, and other nations have imposed increasingly strict sanctions on Venezuela. These measures have been justified by alleged anti-democratic activities by the government and the country’s use as a safe haven for drug trafficking. Many restrictions are still in effect. However, after the US detained Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro earlier this year, Washington provided targeted relief specifically for the oil industry.

Following the earthquakes, the US authorized transactions related to earthquake aid for four months—transactions that would typically be prohibited under sanctions.

Rodriguez also announced that she sent a letter to King Charles requesting the release of Venezuelan gold stored at the Bank of England. She mentioned discussions with the International Monetary Fund about releasing funds as well.

The Bank of England has refused to release approximately 31 tonnes of Venezuelan gold kept in its vaults. This bullion has been the subject of ongoing legal disputes in British courts.