Federal Chancellor Friedrich Merz (CDU) expressed deep distress following the severe double earthquake in Venezuela. On Thursday, Merz shared a statement on social media, saying that he was deeply affected by the terrible earthquake news from Venezuela. He emphasized that Germany stands by Venezuela and is prepared to offer help, adding that his thoughts are with the victims and those who have lost their possessions. He also wished strength and a speedy recovery to those who were injured.
Prior to Merz’s statement, Federal Minister of Defence Boris Pistorius (SPD) had announced that six heavy transport aircraft from the German Armed Forces are ready to deploy aid to Venezuela.
Official reports currently confirm 164 deaths and 700 injuries. However, aid organizers are already estimating that the actual number of victims may reach as high as 100,000.
