NEW YORK — President Nicolás Maduro addressed the United Nations General Assembly on 23 September 2026, calling Venezuela’s political crisis and the recent earthquakes a turning point for the country’s future. He urged the UN to help rebuild infrastructure, provide humanitarian assistance, and support a transition to full democracy.
UN General Assembly hearing
Maduro spoke from the Assembly’s podium, noting that the country had endured “a series of unprecedented challenges.” He said the political crisis that began in 2023, marked by opposition protests and international sanctions, had weakened state institutions. He added that the two earthquakes that struck in 2026 had compounded the nation’s difficulties, causing widespread damage and loss of life. The president called on member states to lift sanctions that hindered humanitarian aid and to facilitate the delivery of relief supplies.
Political crisis context
Since the 2023 presidential elections, Venezuela has faced intense political polarization. Opposition leaders have been arrested on charges of inciting violence, and the National Assembly has been largely inactive. The United States and several European countries have imposed sanctions on Venezuelan officials, citing concerns over human rights and democratic backsliding. Maduro’s speech acknowledged these tensions, stating that “the people of Venezuela deserve a government that respects their rights and delivers basic services.”
Earthquake impact
The earthquakes, which struck the eastern and central regions of the country, caused significant damage to housing, schools, and hospitals. According to the Venezuelan Ministry of Civil Protection, the first quake on 12 August 2026 resulted in 1,200 casualties and 3,500 injuries. The second quake on 28 August 2026 left 800 more dead and destroyed 2,000 homes. The president highlighted the urgent need for international engineering and medical teams to assist in reconstruction.
International response
In the days following the earthquakes, the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) announced a rapid assessment mission. The UN Secretary‑General, António Guterres, issued a statement calling for “swift, coordinated humanitarian action” and urged all parties to respect the humanitarian space. The International Monetary Fund (IMF) and World Bank have also expressed willingness to provide financial assistance, pending a review of Venezuela’s economic reforms.
UN humanitarian efforts
OCHA has coordinated with the Venezuelan Red Cross and several NGOs to distribute food, water, and medical supplies. The UN has opened a humanitarian corridor in the capital, Caracas, to allow aid convoys to move freely. The UN’s Special Rapporteur on the Right to Health, Dr. Maria Torres, has called for the restoration of essential health services, citing a 30% decline in primary care availability since the earthquakes.
Future prospects
Maduro concluded his address by calling for a “new era of governance” that would include free and fair elections, a transparent judiciary, and the protection of civil liberties. He urged the UN to facilitate dialogue between the government and opposition groups. The president also requested that the UN Security Council consider a resolution to lift sanctions that impede humanitarian aid. The UN’s Human Rights Council is scheduled to review Venezuela’s situation in early October.
