Earthquakes in Venezuela: health system on the limit and rescues decrease

Merz’s support and the political storm

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz ignited the political and sporting debate by posting on social media his support for the national team, eliminated on penalties by Paraguay in the round of 32 of the 2026 World Cup. “Although the elimination hurts: What a game! With your commitment and team spirit, you moved our country. We are proud of you,” he wrote.

The reaction was immediate. MEP Marie-Agnes Strack-Zimmermann and opposition member Sevim Dagdelen accused him of losing touch with reality. The daily Tagesspiegel suggested that the publication was a mistake by an employee of the Federal Press Office.

The federation analyzes the performance

Bernd Neuendorf, president of the DFB, acknowledged the disappointment and held a workshop with coach Julian Nagelsmann and directors Andreas Rettig and Rudi Voeller to evaluate the team’s performance.

Despite rumors about his departure, Nagelsmann made it clear that he will not resign. “If the DFB wants me to continue, I will. And if not, they can tell me. I know how football works,” he said. Voeller backed him up: “He’s the right person in the right place.”

Klopp, meanwhile, ruled out any return. From the United States, where he works as a commentator, he said he was satisfied as Red Bull’s global football director. The German team thus begins an analysis process without immediate changes on the bench.

Devastating earthquakes of magnitude 7.2 and 7.5 shook central Venezuela last Wednesday, June 24. Almost five days after the earthquake, which left thousands dead, the South American country remains in a state of emergency.

Rescuers from various nations are working tirelessly among the rubble to locate survivors. In this task, the Mexican Topos brigades have stood out for their dedication and vocation for service. His work has been recognized by millions of people around the world.

Recognition on social networks

Users of digital platforms like X have shared dozens of videos and images of the Moles’ work in Venezuela. The messages celebrate not only the rescues of people, but also animals. Some of the most replicated thank yous include:

“The Topos of Mexico are surreal! Forever great.”

“If ever, in the face of a natural disaster, you get trapped in the rubble and you hear that the Moles from Mexico have arrived, resist a little longer because you are about to be rescued, they will find you no matter what. The Mexican Moles have won heaven!”

“The Mexican Topos continue to carry out extraordinary work in Venezuela, working tirelessly among the rubble to save lives and provide hope in the midst of tragedy. Their bravery, solidarity and commitment have once again demonstrated why they are a source of pride for Mexico and an example for the world.”

The wave of publications reflects the global impact of the work of these emergency bodies. Their performance in Venezuela has reinforced the image of the Topos as a symbol of international solidarity.

Heat waves in Europe: 1,300 excess deaths

Since June 21, Europe has recorded more than 1,300 excess deaths related to high temperatures. The director of the World Health Organization (WHO), Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, announced the figure in his X account.

>”It is the fastest warming continent on Earth, at a rate that doubles the global average,” he stated.

In that context, he noted that 150 million people are suffering from extreme heat waves, often called “the silent killer.” He explained that European homes, workplaces and schools were not designed to withstand those temperatures.

“Driven by climate change and global warming, the phenomenon of heat waves – which previously occurred ‘once in a generation’ – now occurs almost annually. We had been warned,” he added.

The WHO indicated that it works with its Member States to address the threats of extreme heat, with emphasis on preparation, prevention and strengthening health systems.

>”We urge European countries to implement action plans on heat and health as part of a broader agenda to protect health in the face of climate change,” he said.