A devastating pair of earthquakes struck multiple regions of Venezuela on Wednesday, leaving a confirmed death toll of at least 164 people and widespread destruction in their wake. In the aftermath of the disaster, Mia Amor Mottley, Prime Minister of Barbados, has extended formal condolences on behalf of her nation and made a public offer of assistance to the crisis-stricken South American country.
In an official statement shared across major social media platforms, Mottley confirmed that she had held a telephone conversation with Venezuela’s Acting President Delcy Rodríguez. During the call, the Barbadian leader conveyed deep sympathy to all Venezuelans impacted by the seismic event, on behalf of both the Barbadian government and the island’s general population.
Mottley reflected on the nature of the disaster in her remarks, noting that many would frame the destructive quakes as an unforeseen natural disaster, or an “act of God”. But she emphasized that the global response to the tragedy must be rooted in shared human values: “What happens next must be acts of humanity, acts of kindness, acts of solidarity, acts of courage, and acts of practical love.”
Framing Venezuela as a valued member of the broader Caribbean regional community, Mottley stressed that geographic borders do not contain shared suffering in the Americas. “Venezuela is our neighbour, and in this Caribbean family, pain does not stop at a border. Barbados stands ready to assist in whatever way we can,” she added.
Beyond offering support to the Venezuelan people, the Prime Minister extended personal condolences to every family that has lost loved ones in the disaster. She also publicly recognized the tireless work of first responders and emergency crews, who have continued search and rescue operations despite dangerous conditions and extreme fatigue.
“To every family grieving, to those waiting for word of loved ones, and to the first responders working through fear and exhaustion, please know that you are not alone. Barbados stands with you in prayer, in compassion and in resolve,” Mottley said.