THE King and Queen have said they are “deeply saddened” by the devastating earthquakes that have struck Venezuela, killing nearly 1,000 people.

In a personal message to the Venezuelan people, King Charles expressed the royal couple’s “profound sympathy” to those who have lost loved ones, homes and livelihoods in the disaster.

Rescue operations continue after earthquakes in VenezuelaThe King and Queen have issued a statement to the people of Venezuela after an earthquake killed nearly 1,000 people Credit: EPA

He wrote: “To the people of Venezuela,

“My wife and I were deeply saddened to learn of the devastating earthquakes that have struck your country, and of the tragic loss of life and suffering they have caused.

“At this most difficult of times, we send our profound sympathy to all those who have lost loved ones, homes and livelihoods.

“Our special thoughts are with the injured, those awaiting news of family and friends, and the emergency responders working tirelessly to support those in desperate need.

“We greatly admire the resilience and strength of the Venezuelan people and send our most heartfelt condolences to all those affected by this terrible tragedy.”