Pope Leo expresses solidarity with people in Venezuela following twin earthquakes earlier this week, urging prayers for those affected during his Sunday Angelus appearance in Rome. In remarks delivered in Spanish, he tells worshipers he is close to “Venezuelan sisters and brothers” impacted by the earthquakes, which have caused widespread casualties and injuries. He also expresses gratitude to rescuers and others assisting in the aftermath.
The European Union backs the response with emergency assistance. EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas says the EU mobilizes 5 million euros for affected communities in Venezuela and reports speaking with Venezuela’s interim president, Delcy Rodriguez, to convey European support.
Al Jazeera reports that the earthquakes have killed at least 1,400 people, while other outlets emphasize the scale of suffering and the ongoing relief efforts. The Vatican does not provide further new casualty figures in the coverage provided. Pope Leo’s remarks come as attention remains on rescue and recovery operations across the affected areas.
