Musk releases Starlink for free in Venezuela after earthquakes

Starlink, a satellite internet service from SpaceX, a company led by businessman Elon Musk, announced this Thursday (25) that it will offer free internet until July 25th for new and existing customers in areas of Venezuela hit by the two strong earthquakes this Wednesday (24).

In a publication on X, Starlink stated that the measure applies to people who are in areas impacted by the devastating tremors recorded in the country. The company also said it is working to quickly deploy satellite internet terminals and help restore connectivity in the most affected regions.

In a statement published on its website, Starlink said that active customers in the affected areas will not need to take any action. According to the company, a credit will be automatically applied to these users’ accounts.

The company also stated that customers who had canceled the service will receive credit to reactivate the connection. New customers who have access to a Starlink kit in the affected areas will be able to contact support to receive free internet until July 25th.

Starlink also said that users who had their internet kit damaged by the earthquakes will be able to request a free replacement. The measure seeks to facilitate the reestablishment of communications in places where common telephone and internet networks were affected.

The announcement comes amid the humanitarian emergency caused by two strong earthquakes. The Chavista regime raised the death toll to 235 on Thursday night and reported that more than 4,300 people were injured.

According to Venezuela’s Health Minister, Carlos Alvarado, the highest number of deaths and injuries was recorded in the state of La Guaira, a coastal region neighboring Caracas and one of the hardest hit by the tremors. The area is home to the Simón Bolívar de Maiquetía International Airport, the country’s main airport, which was temporarily closed due to the damage. Lack of communication has been one of the problems faced by the affected areas.

Among the foreign victims, Brazil confirmed the death of two Brazilian citizens. Portugal and Spain also registered dead citizens and reported that more than 100 Portuguese, Spanish or descendants remain missing or without contact in Venezuela.

By Editor