Venezuela Earthquake Death Toll Nears 5000

The death toll from the devastating earthquakes that struck Venezuela in June has climbed to 4930, according to lawmaker Jorge Rodríguez, while the United Nations estimates that up to 50,000 people remain missing, with many feared trapped beneath collapsed buildings.

Nearly one month after the twin earthquakes, authorities have confirmed that almost 17000 people were injured, while more than 21000 survivors are currently living in temporary shelters as recovery efforts continue.

Although Venezuelan rescue teams have been working since the disaster struck, many residents have criticized the pace of the official response.

"From the very first moment, there was an immediate response, but from civilians," displaced resident Cinthia Pulido told Al Jazeera. "The state's response is only being seen now. We're watching and waiting for some kind of answer."

With international search-and-rescue teams completing their emergency operations and departing the country, the focus has shifted toward humanitarian assistance and long-term reconstruction.

Another survivor, Louismarez Paez, said she is struggling to support both herself and her family, noting that her elderly mother has received little assistance beyond what she can personally provide.

Recovery efforts have also been complicated by U.S. and European sanctions on Venezuela. Economist Mark Weisbrot, co-director of the Center for Economic and Policy Research, said the country is unable to access roughly $11 billion in assets frozen abroad, resources he described as critical for reconstruction.

Earlier this week, 14 Democratic lawmakers in the United States reportedly urged the White House to temporarily ease sanctions, arguing they are significantly hindering relief operations and rebuilding efforts.

The United Nations estimates that Venezuela will require approximately $37 billion to recover from one of the country's deadliest natural disasters in recent history.