On August 2, 2026, Venezuela paid tribute to emergency responders, military personnel, and public servants who played a crucial role in the aftermath of the June 24 earthquakes. Acting President Delcy Rodríguez awarded the Hero of Venezuela medal to those recognized for their work, emphasizing the unity and institutional capacity demonstrated by the nation during the crisis, as reported by telesurenglish.net.
The ceremony celebrated the dedication of personnel from state institutions, security agencies, and emergency services involved in search-and-rescue operations, humanitarian assistance, and reconstruction efforts. Rodríguez highlighted their response as a testament to Venezuela’s ability to act in unity despite the magnitude of the emergency.
Delcy Rodríguez accused international actors of spreading disinformation during the crisis, asserting that the response showcased Venezuela’s institutional capacity and national solidarity. She praised the rescue teams for their relentless search for survivors and subsequent transition to reconstruction work. Rodríguez also acknowledged the personal sacrifices made by public servants, some of whom lost family members in the earthquakes yet continued to assist affected residents.
According to official figures, emergency operations rescued 6,462 people alive from collapsed buildings and high-risk areas, along with 349 pets. Medical teams treated 58,863 patients, with 37,786 people discharged in the weeks following the earthquakes. Authorities distributed 548,872 tons of humanitarian supplies across the affected areas.
International support was significant, with humanitarian aid and specialized rescue teams from 46 countries and 20 international organizations contributing to the relief efforts. A total of 2,278 rescuers, supported by 33 search-and-rescue dogs and 41 operational and logistical vehicles, participated. Venezuela received 9,920 tons of emergency aid through international air and maritime humanitarian corridors.
Rodríguez outlined the government’s recovery plan, which extends beyond debris clearance to rebuild communities, especially in La Guaira, the region most severely affected by the earthquakes. She commended the coordination among different levels of government, thanking Chacao Mayor Gustavo Duque and Sucre Mayor Diógenes Lara for their early cooperation.
In foreign affairs, Rodríguez announced the initiation of a process to restore consular relations with Chile, marking a step toward rebuilding broader bilateral ties. She expressed gratitude to the Chilean president and affirmed Venezuela’s commitment to advancing cooperation, friendship, and South American diplomacy.
The recognition of Venezuela’s responders serves as a reminder of the country’s resilience and the dedication of its people and institutions in the face of natural disasters.