The U.S. government has pledged $150 million in aid and deployed Navy warships to assist in rescue operations following earthquakes in Venezuela that resulted in at least 235 fatalities. The earthquakes, measuring 7.2 and 7.5 in magnitude, struck northern Venezuela approximately 120 miles west of Caracas on Wednesday night, injuring over 940 individuals and causing significant damage in the state of La Guaira, including the closure of Simón Bolívar International Airport, according to Venezuela’s Health Ministry.
The U.S. Department of State announced the mobilization of funds, which includes $50 million for relief partners such as Samaritan’s Purse and Catholic Relief Services, and a $100 million contribution to a United Nations humanitarian fund. A regional Disaster Assistance Response Team and specialized urban search-and-rescue teams have been deployed to the area.
U.S. Southern Command reported that military forces, including the USS Fort Lauderdale and USS Billings, have been sent to support the State Department's operations. The USS Fort Lauderdale will act as a command center, while the USS Billings will assist with disaster response efforts close to shore. Rotary-wing aircraft are also being sent to provide airlift support for response personnel and search and rescue teams.
The State Department emphasized the safety of U.S. citizens as a top priority and is providing consular assistance to those affected. U.S. citizens in Venezuela are encouraged to enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program for emergency assistance.