A series of powerful earthquakes in Venezuela has left hundreds of families facing loss and uncertainty. As rescue teams continue their work, messages of support have arrived from around the world, including from King Willem-Alexander and Queen Máxima of the Netherlands, who expressed sympathy for those affected by the disaster.
King Willem-Alexander, 59, and Queen Máxima, 55, issued a public statement following the devastating earthquakes that struck Venezuela. The message, shared on Instagram and other platforms, highlighted the close connection between the Netherlands and Venezuela.
“Our neighboring country, Venezuela, has been struck by devastating earthquakes. Our thoughts are with all those affected and with the families who are now mourning their loved ones or worrying about them,” the royal couple stated. Both King Willem-Alexander and Queen Máxima signed the message.
The statement is particularly significant because the Dutch Caribbean islands of Aruba and Curaçao, both part of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, are located near Venezuela’s northern coast. Bonaire, the third island in the ABC group, is a special municipality of the Netherlands and also lies close to the affected region.
Rising Death Toll and Ongoing Rescue Efforts
According to acting President Delcy Rodríguez, 57, speaking on Venezolana de Televisión, at least 164 people have died as a result of the earthquakes. Authorities have also confirmed 971 injuries.
Search and rescue operations remain active across affected areas. As crews continue to reach damaged locations, officials expect the number of victims to increase. No information has been released regarding whether German citizens are among those impacted.
Reports indicate that the first earthquake struck on Wednesday at approximately 6 p.m. local time. A stronger second quake followed shortly afterward. Rodríguez also confirmed that at least 30 aftershocks have been recorded since the initial seismic events.
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, 70, also offered support through a message on X. “The news of the terrible earthquake in Venezuela is deeply distressing,” he wrote. “Germany stands by Venezuela’s side and will help. Our thoughts are with the victims and those who have lost their belongings. I wish the injured strength and a swift recovery.”
The earthquakes have caused significant destruction across Venezuela, with casualties continuing to rise as emergency teams search for survivors. Messages from King Willem-Alexander, Queen Máxima, and international leaders reflect growing global concern as affected communities begin the difficult process of recovery.
