The United States has deployed specialized search and rescue teams to Venezuela to assist in the aftermath of devastating earthquakes that struck the country on Wednesday, killing at least 920 people and leaving parts of Caracas devastated, according to US Department of State Spokesperson Tommy Piggott.
US Teams Arrive with Advanced Capabilities
Speaking on Friday, Piggott confirmed that US personnel are on the ground to help with search and rescue efforts and to deliver humanitarian and medical supplies. The US Embassy in Caracas announced that the first air shipment of equipment has arrived to support two specialized US search and rescue teams. Each team comprises nearly 80 experts, including firefighters, doctors, structural engineers, and 12 canines trained for detection in rubble, bringing advanced capabilities to locate survivors and assist in complex emergencies.
Coordination with Venezuelan Leaders
Major General Kevin J. Jarrard of the US Southern Command and Charge d'Affaires John M. Barrett met with Interim President of Venezuela Delcy Rodriguez and other senior leaders to coordinate relief efforts. The teams are being positioned to head to the hardest-hit areas and begin operations when conditions allow.
International Solidarity and Support
Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo held a telephone conversation with Interim President Rodriguez, expressing condolences for the victims and reaffirming Mexico's support. She stated, "Today I had a phone call with the interim president of Venezuela, Delcy Rodriguez, to whom I expressed condolences for the victims of the earthquakes and reaffirmed our support for the Venezuelan people. Mexico is already deploying humanitarian aid in the affected areas; we are attentive to additional needs. In difficult times, our nation stands in solidarity with brother countries."
UNICEF Reports 3.9 Million Children Affected
The United Nations reported that an estimated 3.9 million children live in areas affected by the powerful earthquakes. UNICEF is on the ground, supporting national efforts to meet the needs of the most vulnerable children and their families.
Additional Earthquake Detected
A new earthquake was detected off the northern coast of Venezuela on Friday, registering a magnitude of 4.9 on the Richter scale, according to Al Jazeera. This tremor comes days after the pair of powerful earthquakes on Wednesday that caused widespread devastation.
