Lead

Russia's Ambassador to Venezuela, Sergey Melik-Bagdasarov, confirmed that humanitarian aid from a Russian company has been delivered to residents of Caracas and Venezuela's La Guaira state following the devastating earthquake on June 24. The ambassador's statements were reported by TASS.

Coverage Comparison

The reports, both from TASS, focus on the delivery of aid and the ongoing relief efforts. One account details the handover in Caracas, while the other highlights the aid provided to La Guaira, the area described as worst affected. The ambassador's comments, quoted directly, emphasize the scale of the disaster and the international response.

Key Claims

  • On July 10, at the Guyana-Essequibo cultural and sports complex in Caracas, a Russian company operating in Venezuela handed over humanitarian aid intended for residents left without shelter and injured in the earthquake, as stated by Ambassador Melik-Bagdasarov.
  • Aid was also delivered to La Guaira state, which the ambassador described as the area worst affected by the earthquake. The aid included electric generators, medicines, food, drinking water, and basic necessities, purchased in Venezuela.
  • A powerful earthquake struck Venezuela on June 24. Two series of tremors measuring magnitudes 7.2 and 7.5 were recorded within 40 seconds of each other, with epicenters located in Yaracuy state, 10 kilometers apart.
  • The death toll from the earthquake has risen to 4,118, according to Jorge Rodriguez, president of the Bolivarian Republic's National Assembly, who reported on his Telegram channel. He also said 16,740 people were injured and 17,907 were left homeless. Additionally, 190 buildings were completely ruined and 856 sustained significant damage. A total of 6,462 people have been rescued, and 29,966 underwent treatment in hospitals. Assistance has been rendered to 86,794 families, and 9,766 tons of food distributed.
  • Russian President Vladimir Putin expressed his condolences immediately after the earthquake, the ambassador recalled. Condolences were also sent by the heads of both chambers of the Russian parliament and several state officials.
  • A large-scale Russian government-coordinated aid shipment, led by Russia's Ministry of Emergency Situations, is expected to arrive in Venezuela in the coming days, according to the ambassador.

Perspectives

The Russian ambassador framed the aid as a gesture of solidarity, stating that "in Venezuela, Russia is always seen as a true friend and reliable partner." He noted that the governor of La Guaira, Jose Alejandro Teran, welcomed the aid and thanked the Russian delegation. The ambassador also mentioned that authorities from Crimea and the mayor of Yalta had sent their condolences to Governor Teran, following a previous visit that sought to bring the regions closer.