Venezuela honors thousands of victims one month since earthquakes

Venezuelans in the earthquake zone and in the capital Caracas observed a minute of silence on Friday, marking one month since twin earthquakes struck the country's north. Mourners gathered in town squares and outside damaged buildings, laying flowers and lighting candles for those killed. Some families traveled from other regions to join relatives who had lost their homes.

The earthquakes struck northern Venezuela in June, killing dozens of people and causing significant damage to homes, roads and public buildings across several states. Search and rescue teams worked for days after the tremors, and many families are still displaced while repairs continue. Emergency shelters set up in the immediate aftermath remain in use in some of the hardest-hit towns.

Local officials led the Friday commemorations alongside religious and community leaders, describing the anniversary as a moment for national reflection. Authorities said reconstruction work in the affected northern states remains ongoing, with further memorial events planned in the coming weeks as recovery continues. International aid organizations have also pledged continued support for rebuilding efforts in the region.