Royal responses to Venezuela earthquake

Royals from around the world have sent their condolences to the people of Venezuela following a powerful earthquake with significant loss of life.

On Wednesday evening, two large earthquakes struck around 160km west of Caracas, violently shaking the surrounding region at around 7 pm. A magnitude 7.2 was first to hit, followed by an even stronger 7.5 that sent jolting, destructive underground waves outwards.

Figures are still being counted, as of Thursday afternoon, around 164 people are confirmed dead, with the number expected to rise. Videos shared to social media showed absolute destruction, with buildings collapsing onto streets filled with people escaping falling debris.

In response to the quake and loss of life, royal families from around the world have started to send in their condolences and heartfelt words of comfort for the victims’ families and those affected by the disaster.

— SPAIN: King Felipe and Queen Letizia were the first royals to send their thoughts, saying, “We offer our full support to the Venezuelan people in the wake of the tragedy caused by the two earthquakes that have struck the country. We wish to convey our solidarity, affection, and strength to all those injured and to the communities affected by this disaster. We share in the grief of the victims’ families.”

Queen Letizia was on a morning engagement when asked about her response to the unfolding disaster, saying in part, “The King is currently flying to Mexico and, like so many citizens of this country, he is — we are — concerned and following the news following those two earthquakes in various parts of Venezuela.”

King Felipe is en route to attend the Spain-Uruguay FIFA World Cup match in Guadalajara and to meet with Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum in Mexico City.

— The Netherlands: King Willem-Alexander and Queen Maxima have responded to the “devastating” quake, saying, “Our neighbour Venezuela has been struck by devastating earthquakes. Our thoughts are with all those affected and with the families who are now mourning or fearing for their loved ones.

The addition of “our neighbour” stems from Aruba, Curaçao, and the Caribbean Netherlands’ proximity to Venezuela.

— Monaco: Prince Albert released an official statement, which said, “Princess Charlene and I learned with deep emotion the occurrence of two violent earthquakes that hit western Caracas yesterday, causing brutal human casualties and injuring many. My family and the people of Monégasque join me in sending the Venezuelan people our most sincere condolences and showing them our full solidarity in the face of this tragedy. Our thoughts are with the bereaved families and injured people to whom we send our deepest sympathy at this painful time.”

More reactions and responses are expected. This page will be updated as more statements are issued.