On June 24, CNN reported that Maduro, who is incarcerated in a New York jail, and his wife, Cilia Flores, issued a statement via their official Telegram channel, saying, "Today, there is only one message: maximum unity, maximum solidarity, maximum action."
Maduro urged that no one should be left alone and that communities must care for their children, the elderly, and sick neighbors, calling for support for rescue teams and medical personnel. He emphasized, "Venezuela has faced many trials and will overcome this one with faith, discipline, and solidarity."
The couple was captured in January during a U.S. special operation in Caracas and transported to New York. Maduro faces charges including drug trafficking conspiracy in a federal court.
On the same day, two earthquakes measuring 7.2 and 7.5 struck Venezuela, resulting in at least 32 fatalities and over 700 injuries. Reports indicated building collapses, power outages, and communication disruptions in several areas, including the capital, Caracas. Interim President Delcy Rodríguez declared a national emergency.
Maduro's message from prison comes as the earthquake poses a significant challenge to the U.S., which has been advocating for Venezuela's stabilization since Maduro's removal. CNN noted that this disaster could serve as a test of how far the U.S. is willing to go in supporting Venezuela.
Since Maduro's ousting, Trump has claimed that U.S. intervention in Venezuela has been successful. Secretary of State Marco Rubio previously stated that the White House has a three-phase plan for stabilization, recovery, and transition in Venezuela.
Just a day before the earthquakes, Trump remarked at a rally in Pennsylvania that Venezuela is "doing very well," asserting, "The people running it are our people, and the citizens are happy."
However, CNN pointed out that approximately 28 million Venezuelans continue to suffer from high inflation, low wages, censorship, and a severe humanitarian crisis, suggesting that Trump's optimistic assessment is disconnected from the reality on the ground. The recent earthquakes could exacerbate Venezuela's ongoing economic and political turmoil.
In a post on Truth Social following the earthquakes, Trump stated, "The United States is ready to help Venezuela, willing to help, and has the capability to do so." He added, "I have instructed all agencies of our government to be prepared to move quickly, and we will stand together for our new and great friends."
The U.S. State Department has confirmed that it is sending search and rescue teams, medical resources, and humanitarian aid to Venezuela. However, CNN reported that the extent of U.S. support and its potential impact on Venezuela's stability and economic recovery remains uncertain.
* This article has been translated by AI.
Copyright ⓒ Aju Press All rights reserved.