FLASH
Shkruar nga Pamfleti
The death toll from two powerful earthquakes that struck Venezuela in June has reached 4,930. The updated figure was released by Venezuelan lawmaker Jorge Rodriguez, while the United Nations warns that up to 50,000 people may still be missing, as many are suspected to be under the rubble.
The consequences of the disaster have been severe. According to authorities, around 17,000 people have been injured, while over 21,000 others have been displaced to shelters after their homes were damaged or destroyed.
Venezuelan search and rescue teams have been working non-stop since the earthquakes struck, but residents of the affected areas are critical of the authorities' response. They say the first aid came mainly from citizens and independent organizations, while state institutions reacted late.
"In the first moments, ordinary people and volunteers reacted. The state's response is only now being seen," displaced resident Cinthia Pulido told Al Jazeera.
Meanwhile, international search and rescue teams that arrived immediately after the disaster have completed their mission and left the country. Efforts are now focused on providing humanitarian aid and the reconstruction process.
In the affected areas, many families continue to face a lack of food, shelter and financial support. One of them, Louismarez Paez, said that the aid she receives is not enough to provide for the basic needs of herself and her children.
The recovery process has been further complicated by international economic sanctions, particularly those imposed by the United States. According to experts, these measures have limited the Venezuelan government's ability to secure the funds needed to cope with the consequences of the disaster.
Economist Mark Weisbrot said that Venezuela has significant financial resources, but does not have access to them. According to him, about $ 11 billion remains blocked by the United States and several European countries. He also noted that a group of 14 Democratic US lawmakers have called on the White House to ease sanctions, arguing that they are hindering emergency aid and the reconstruction process.
According to United Nations estimates, the cost of Venezuela's recovery after the two earthquakes could reach around $37 billion.
Lini një Përgjigje