U.S. Aid Efforts in Venezuela After Earthquakes

Secretary Rubio, speaking in Manama, Bahrain, outlined the U.S. response to severe earthquakes in Venezuela. He highlighted the swift deployment of search and rescue teams, medical resources, and humanitarian aid. This immediate action aims to save lives and support recovery.

Secretary Rubio restated President Trump’s dedication to assisting Venezuela through collaboration with global partners. The aim is to aid recovery and ensure long-term stability.

The U.S. military extended relief operations in Venezuela with the delivery of 10 U.S. Marine Corps Medium Tactical Vehicle Replacements (MTVRs). On Friday, a U.S. Air Force C-17 Globemaster delivered the last of these MTVRs. These vehicles are crucial in logistics efforts to distribute necessary aid to communities affected by the earthquakes, according to U.S. Southern Command (SOUTHCOM).

More than 1,000 MTVRs have been utilized in Iraq and Afghanistan and are widely used in various emergency and humanitarian missions by the Marine Corps.

At Simón Bolívar International Airport, located near Caracas, the Humanitarian Assistance Coordination Center (HACC) was coordinating with local officials, the State Department, and other agencies to support relief efforts on the ground.

Alongside ground operations, Marine, Navy, and Army aircraft were performing airlift and transport missions. They delivered pre-packaged meals to survivors and displaced individuals, as noted in a SOUTHCOM report on Friday.

The USS Fort Lauderdale remained stationed at the Port of La Guaira, aiding communication and acting as a distribution hub.

Following the 7.2 and 7.5 magnitude earthquakes, the Trump administration has allocated $150 million for humanitarian efforts. A U.S. military V-22 Osprey aircraft landed in Caraballeda, contributing to the rescue operations.

The administration also formed a Disaster Assistance Response Team (DART) comprising over 250 members, including three specialized Urban Search-and-Rescue (USAR) teams.

The death toll from the earthquakes is nearing 2,000 and continues to rise.