US Aid to Venezuela After Earthquakes

Secretary Rubio Outlines US Earthquake Relief Efforts

Secretary Rubio, speaking in Manama, Bahrain, detailed the US government’s response to the recent catastrophic earthquakes in Venezuela. The immediate deployment of search and rescue teams, medical resources, and humanitarian support is aimed at saving lives with urgency. Rubio reaffirmed President Donald Trump’s dedication to aiding Venezuela and working with global partners on recovery and long-term stability.

Ongoing Relief Operations

The US military has continued its relief efforts in Venezuela, delivering the final batch of ten US Marine Corps Medium Tactical Vehicle Replacements (MTVRs) to aid earthquake victims. A US Air Force C-17 Globemaster cargo aircraft transported these MTVRs to assist disaster victims and relief personnel. SOUTHCOM reports the MTVR crews are crucial in delivering urgent assistance to local communities.

Rescue operations are underway, including the celebrated survival of a two-year-old boy pulled from rubble six days post-earthquake.

Military and Humanitarian Collaboration

At Simón Bolívar International Airport, the US military’s Humanitarian Assistance Coordination Center (HACC) collaborates with local Venezuelan authorities, the State Department, and other entities to support disaster relief efforts. Marine, Navy, and Army aircraft perform airlift and transport missions, delivering meals to earthquake survivors and displaced citizens.

The USS Fort Lauderdale supports communications and acts as a key distribution site at the Port of La Guaira. The Trump administration has committed $150 million in humanitarian aid following the 7.2 and 7.5 magnitude earthquakes.

DART and Ongoing Challenges

A recent mobilization of a Disaster Assistance Response Team (DART), featuring more than 250 personnel, includes three Urban Search-and-Rescue (USAR) teams. The disaster’s death toll has soared to nearly 2,000 as recovery operations persist.