King Charles has expressed deep sorrow after Venezuela was struck by two devastating earthquakes, which have left hundreds dead and tens of thousands missing.
Buckingham Palace released a message from the monarch after reports said the death toll had risen to 920 by Friday. Rescue teams from around the world have joined local emergency workers in a desperate search for survivors as the scale of the disaster continues to unfold.
According to United Nations aid chief Tom Fletcher, more than 50,000 people are missing after two powerful earthquakes hit within a minute of each other on Wednesday evening. The quakes flattened buildings in northern Venezuela and left many families waiting anxiously for news of their loved ones.
In his message, King Charles said he and Queen Camilla were “deeply saddened” to learn of the destruction and loss of life caused by the earthquakes.
Addressing the people of Venezuela, the King said he and Camilla were sending their “profound sympathy” to those who had lost loved ones, homes and livelihoods during the tragedy.
The monarch also paid tribute to the injured, those still waiting for updates on family and friends, and the emergency responders working in extremely difficult conditions to help people in urgent need.
King Charles said he greatly admired the resilience and strength of the Venezuelan people, adding that he and the Queen were sending their heartfelt condolences to everyone affected by the disaster.
The royal message comes as international rescue efforts continue, with teams racing against time to find survivors and provide aid to communities hit hardest by the earthquakes.
