Latin American and U.S. Leaders Mobilize Earthquake Relief Efforts for Venezuela

The United States and several Latin American nations have pledged humanitarian aid and rescue operations following two catastrophic earthquakes west of Caracas on Wednesday, which claimed at least 32 lives and injured over 700. The tremors, each measuring above magnitude 7 and occurring seconds apart, triggered widespread destruction, with social media footage capturing collapsing buildings and rescue teams sifting through debris.

In a Wednesday evening social media post, President Trump reaffirmed U.S. solidarity, stating, “I have instructed all agencies of our government to act swiftly. We will be there for our new and great friends.” By Thursday, Secretary of State Marco Rubio confirmed immediate deployment of search-and-rescue teams, medical supplies, and aid through the State Department.

State Department Under Secretary Jeremy Lewin highlighted coordination with Venezuela’s interim government to organize international efforts. President Delcy Rodríguez, who assumed power after U.S.-backed demonstrations ousted Nicolás Maduro in January, declared a national emergency, reporting 32 fatalities and 700 injuries.

Aid efforts include Spain’s offer of emergency support, Chile, Argentina, and Panama’s contributions, and Mexico’s dispatch of specialized rescue and medical teams, as noted by President Claudia Sheinbaum. The Dominican Republic is sending military search-and-rescue units, while President Luis Abinader affirmed military assistance and a personal call to Rodríguez expressing solidarity.

El Salvador’s Nayib Bukele announced 300 rescuers and medical personnel en route to Caracas with equipment and supplies. Ecuador, despite political tensions, committed aid and emphasized humanitarian unity, stating, “Humanity must guide leadership,” according to President Daniel Noboa, who has cultivated ties with Trump-aligned actors amid Venezuela’s refugee crisis.

Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva directed his foreign ministry to evaluate potential aid, while Lula underscored support for Rodríguez’s government: “We stand with Venezuela in recovery efforts, recognizing their resilience.” Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended readiness for all forms of assistance, and China’s Foreign Ministry confirmed tailored aid aligned with Venezuela’s needs.

Chef José Andrés’ World Central Kitchen pledged $1 million through its Longer Tables Fund, and Italy’s Antonio Tajani initiated the EU’s civil protection mechanism to coordinate disaster response.

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