Venezuela’s National Day and Earthquake Response
On Venezuela National Day, marking 215 years since independence from Spain, Secretary of State Marco Rubio highlighted the Trump administration’s efforts following recent devastating earthquakes. Rubio’s statement expressed solidarity with Venezuelans amidst their suffering.
“On behalf of the United States of America, I join the people of Venezuela as they mark this national day,” Rubio said. “We hold in our hearts and are united in prayer for the Venezuelans affected by the recent devastating earthquakes.”
The earthquakes, with magnitudes of 7.2 and 7.5, struck on June 24, severely impacting La Guaira, north of Caracas. The death toll is nearly 3,000, with rescuers from the U.S. joining efforts to find survivors.
Rubio praised the quick response of the Trump administration, noting the deployment of U.S. urban search and rescue teams from various fire departments. These efforts aim to support Venezuela in its recovery process.
“The Trump Administration’s swift response efforts in delivering life-saving relief, including the activation of urban search and rescue teams…demonstrate our support for a full recovery,” Rubio stated.
Reports indicate dissatisfaction with the Venezuelan government’s rescue operations, perceived as delayed and ineffective. Communities and neighbors have stepped up to provide aid.
Miguel Poleo, involved in local rescue efforts, voiced concerns regarding the government’s response, stating, “The president said that help arrived quickly but it wasn’t like that. We’ve gotten help from regular people.”
President Trump had promised support for Venezuela, including infrastructure improvements, following Maduro’s removal. Despite this, the earthquakes hit a nation still facing significant challenges.
Trump pledged immediate assistance after the quakes, deploying teams to Venezuela and providing aerial imagery to assess damage. The State Department, collaborating with various entities, has been instrumental in supporting rescue operations and disaster response.
While the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) had been a significant global aid agency, it was closed nearly a year ago, affecting its role in international humanitarian efforts.