The U.S. government has initiated a comprehensive humanitarian response to assist Venezuela following a series of devastating earthquakes that claimed at least 235 lives. The administration has committed $150 million in aid and dispatched U.S. Navy warships to support critical rescue and relief efforts in the affected region.
This swift mobilization on Thursday came after two powerful earthquakes, registering magnitudes of 7.2 and 7.5, struck northern Venezuela late Wednesday night. The seismic activity occurred approximately 120 miles west of Caracas. These back-to-back tremors, described as a "doublet" event, resulted in over 940 injuries and transformed the state of La Guaira into a severe disaster zone. The damage also necessitated the closure of the Simón Bolívar International Airport, according to reports from Venezuela’s Health Ministry.
Humanitarian Response Mobilized
The U.S. Department of State announced Thursday its commitment of $150 million in assistance. This includes $50 million designated for new bilateral awards to various relief organizations actively working on the ground, such as Samaritan’s Purse, Catholic Relief Services, and World Vision. An additional $100 million will be contributed to a United Nations humanitarian pooled fund.
To lead the on-site operations, the State Department has deployed a regional Disaster Assistance Response Team (DART). This team is joined by two highly specialized urban search-and-rescue units, originating from the fire departments of Fairfax County, Virginia, and Los Angeles County, California.
Military Assets Dispatched
U.S. Southern Command (SOUTHCOM) confirmed it is deploying U.S. military forces to the area, specifically directing the USS Fort Lauderdale and the USS Billings towards Venezuela to bolster the State Department-led initiatives.
The USS Fort Lauderdale is slated to function as a "floating command center," equipped with a flight deck capable of supporting heavy-lift helicopters and a well deck designed for launching landing craft, as detailed by SOUTHCOM.
Concurrently, the agile USS Billings will provide vital support closer to the shorelines, aiming to accelerate the disaster response missions.
SOUTHCOM is also dispatching rotary-wing aircraft. These helicopters will offer crucial life-saving airlift capabilities, transporting U.S. government response personnel, along with search and rescue teams and their partners, throughout the relief operations.
Ensuring Safety for U.S. Citizens
Amidst the ongoing crisis, the State Department emphasized that ensuring the safety of U.S. citizens remains the administration’s paramount concern.
The administration prioritizes nothing higher than the safety and security of Americans. The Department of State is diligently working to provide consular assistance to U.S. citizens and their families in the affected regions. The United States remains steadfast in its dedication to assisting Venezuela in its recovery from this devastating calamity and will continue to explore additional avenues for providing meaningful support during this critical period.
U.S. citizens currently in Venezuela are strongly encouraged to enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP). For emergency assistance, individuals can contact the State Department 24/7 at 202-501-4444.
Family members within the U.S. seeking information about loved ones can call toll-free at 888-407-4747.
