U.S. Support Efforts for Venezuela Post-Earthquakes

Secretary Rubio’s Announcement from Bahrain

Secretary Rubio, speaking from Manama, Bahrain, outlined the comprehensive response from the U.S. government following the devastating earthquakes in Venezuela. He confirmed the immediate provision of search and rescue operations, along with crucial medical resources and humanitarian assistance. The urgency in saving lives was emphasized as a top priority.

Rubio reiterated the commitment of President Donald Trump to aiding Venezuela in collaboration with international entities for recovery and future stability.

Military and Humanitarian Assistance

On Friday, the U.S. military continued its relief efforts, marking the delivery of the last of 10 U.S. Marine Corps Medium Tactical Vehicle Replacements (MTVRs) to help victims of the seismic catastrophe. The equipment and additional aid were transported by a U.S. Air Force C-17 Globemaster cargo aircraft.

The MTVRs play a crucial role in supporting logistics efforts to deliver much-needed assistance to local communities, as detailed by the U.S. Southern Command (SOUTHCOM).

In a remarkable rescue, a two-year-old boy was pulled alive from the rubble six days after the earthquakes struck.

Military personnel, including a U.S. Navy Sailor, facilitated the direction of MTVRs in Hawaii, demonstrating preparation for ongoing multinational exercises. These vehicles have been vital in operations worldwide, including Iraq and Afghanistan, focusing on humanitarian missions.

Coordination at Simón Bolívar International Airport

At Caracas’s main airport, the U.S. military’s Humanitarian Assistance Coordination Center worked closely with local authorities, the State Department, and on-the-ground agencies to manage disaster relief efforts effectively.

The Armed Forces used various aircraft types to conduct transport and airlift flights, ensuring the delivery of pre-packaged meals to earthquake survivors and those displaced by the disaster.

The USS Fort Lauderdale remained at the Port of La Guaira to support communications and distribution activities.

Financial and Structural Aid

The Trump administration allocated $150 million for this humanitarian mission in the aftermath of the 7.2 and 7.5 magnitude earthquakes. A Disaster Assistance Response Team (DART), composed of over 250 members and including specialized Urban Search-and-Rescue teams, was mobilized to manage the situation.

The earthquake’s death toll has reached nearly 2,000, with the number still climbing.