King Charles and Queen Camilla have issued a message of condolence to the people of Venezuela following a devastating double earthquake that has killed nearly 1,000 people. The monarch expressed deep sadness over the tragic loss of life and suffering caused by the disaster.
Royal Message of Sympathy
In a personal message, the King said: "To the people of Venezuela, My wife and I were deeply saddened to learn of the devastating earthquakes that have struck your country, and of the tragic loss of life and suffering they have caused. At this most difficult of times, we send our profound sympathy to all those who have lost loved ones, homes and livelihoods. Our special thoughts are with the injured, those awaiting news of family and friends, and the emergency responders working tirelessly to support those in desperate need. We greatly admire the resilience and strength of the Venezuelan people and send our most heartfelt condolences to all those affected by this terrible tragedy."
UK Rescue Team Deployed
A British search and rescue team has been deployed to Venezuela to assist in the aftermath. The 68-person team, composed of firefighters from across the country, departed from RAF Brixton on Friday along with six specialist search dogs and humanitarian staff. Prime Minister Keir Starmer stated: "My thoughts are with the people of Venezuela following this week's devastating earthquakes. The UK stands in solidarity with all those affected, particularly those who have lost loved ones, homes and livelihoods."
Devastating Toll
At least 920 people have died and thousands more have been injured after two powerful earthquakes struck Venezuela on Wednesday night. The death toll is expected to rise significantly, with around 50,000 people still missing. Over 8,000 survivors have been located. Heartbroken families have begun searching for missing loved ones themselves, claiming rescue teams are not visible in some areas. Police and other emergency responders continue to search through rubble for survivors.
