International rescue teams from several countries and the United Nations are assisting after two strong earthquakes in Venezuela on Wednesday that have killed at least 235 people and wounded 4,300, with hundreds still missing.

The quakes measured 7.2 and 7.5 magnitude and were among the strongest recorded in Venezuela in over a century, affecting the coastal state of La Guaira and the capital Caracas.

Authorities have raised the death toll to 235; 4,300 people are injured, and hospitals are reportedly at capacity. More than 70,000 families have been affected and over 100 buildings have collapsed in La Guaira, where the main international airport remains closed. Volunteers are digging through rubble with bare hands while families await information on missing relatives. Civilians along the Caracas‑La Guaira highway are transporting water, food and medicine. Residents report fear of further collapses, with many sleeping outdoors.

Countries including Brazil, Canada, Mexico, Colombia, El Salvador, Cuba and the United States, as well as the United Nations, have deployed search‑and‑rescue teams, medical units, equipment and financial aid. The United States pledged $150 million and a whole‑of‑government response that includes warships, transport planes and helicopters. Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva announced a field hospital and additional firefighters. El Salvador’s President Nayib Bukele said 300 rescuers and 50 tonnes of equipment, medicines and supplies are ready. Cuban health workers are providing medical services. Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum said a military team is being sent, with more assistance possible. Colombia will send more than 60 rescuers and 12 tonnes of humanitarian aid. Additional support has been offered by Turkey, Spain, France, Germany, Switzerland, the Netherlands, the Czech Republic, China, India and Iran. The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies released $2.5 million, and the Vatican announced 100,000 euros in emergency aid.

The disaster occurs against a backdrop of Venezuela's prolonged economic collapse and strained infrastructure, which have limited local response capacity. International assistance is expected to play an important role in saving lives and meeting the needs of the injured.