Delcy Rodríguez, the interim president of Venezuela, visited Macuto in La Guaira state on Friday, an area severely affected by the two massive earthquakes of 7.2 and 7.5 magnitude that struck the nation on Wednesday. Her visit, however, was met with intense backlash over allegations of political grandstanding and governmental neglect.
The visit, which was broadcast on social media and covered by state-run media, aimed to oversee rescue operations and announce the arrival of international humanitarian aid. The grim situation has resulted in an official toll of 235 dead, approximately 200 missing, and over 4,300 injured.
Despite the intended purpose, Rodríguez's appearance was criticized for being a political maneuver while thousands remain trapped under rubble more than 24 hours post-quake.
The Government's Promises in Macuto
From Macuto, Rodríguez expressed the government's support, stating they were "standing with our people in the search and rescue of individuals trapped by the collapsed structures and buildings due to the twin earthquakes," and emphasized their goal to "rescue as many people alive as possible."
She announced the arrival of international rescue teams from the Dominican Republic, El Salvador—with 188 personnel sent by President Bukele—Mexico, and Spain, whose Military Emergency Unit had set off for Venezuela the previous day.
The Health Minister, Carlos Alvarado, confirmed the death toll: "Regrettably, we have received about 235 patients who arrived without vital signs or passed away upon reaching our healthcare facilities."
Dire Conditions in a Devastated Region
The on-ground reality starkly contrasts the regime's official narrative.
Eyewitness José Rolón, communicating with RTVE from his van—the only available means of connectivity—painted a picture of utter devastation: "There is no power, no Internet, no water, absolutely no services at all."
Rolón described the obliteration of Los Corales, noting, "That area is almost entirely gone, the buildings have vanished as if a controlled explosion took place; not a single floor stands. People are looting homes, searching for relatives."
Eight hospitals have either collapsed or are overwhelmed, including José María Vargas Hospital, and Simón Bolívar International Airport remains closed due to severe structural damage, completing the scene of destruction.
Social Media Backlash
Rodríguez's Instagram video attracted over 77,000 views and 952 comments, mostly critical of the government's response.
"Funds were never missing for luxury vehicles, concerts, baseball stadiums, or political campaigns, but there was never enough for hospitals, firefighters, paramedics, or emergencies," one user commented.
Another user questioned the military's absence: "Where is the army? The same army deployed during protests... be efficient at least once in your lives."
The shortage of basic equipment was also criticized: "You are to blame for Civil Defense rescuing people with cellphone flashlights. You're fooling no one; people are alone, rescuing their families."
Several comments questioned the timing of the public appearance: "Are you seriously politicizing? When what's needed more than political marketing is action on the rubble where people have been trapped for over 24 hours."
On Twitter, the reactions were just as scathing. "@MarketCrossing called it "a useless and shameful media show." User @Neve712221 was more direct: "Where are you liars, people are alone, probably now planning to steal humanitarian aid again."
Historical Burden and Structural Crisis
La Guaira—known as Vargas state until 2019—is home to half a million people, most living in poverty according to the ENCOVI survey by Andrés Bello Catholic University.
Rodríguez took on the interim presidency on January 5, 2026, following Nicolás Maduro's capture by U.S. forces, inheriting a country suffering over a decade of deterioration in emergency and healthcare infrastructure.
The U.S. Geological Survey estimated a 42% probability that the final death toll could range between 10,000 and 100,000, potentially marking this disaster as the worst in Venezuela's modern history.
Key Facts About Venezuela's Earthquake Crisis
What was the magnitude of the earthquakes that struck Venezuela?
The earthquakes that hit Venezuela were of 7.2 and 7.5 magnitude.
How many people have been reported dead or missing?
Official reports indicate 235 deaths and about 200 people missing.
What has been the response to Delcy Rodríguez’s visit?
Delcy Rodríguez's visit was heavily criticized for being seen as political propaganda rather than genuine assistance.
What is the current condition of essential services in the affected area?
The area is facing a total lack of essential services, including electricity, water, and internet.