Searches continue for Venezuela earthquake survivors
Rescue workers are still searching for survivors after two powerful earthquakes struck Venezuela this week. International teams from the EU and US have been deployed to help.
Search and rescue operations are ongoing in Venezuela following two devastating earthquakes that hit the country on Wednesday. The first tremor measured 7.2 and the second 7.5 on the Richter scale. Authorities report 920 fatalities and 3,360 injured. At least 383 buildings, 13 hospitals, 25 shopping centers, and 1,002 other structures have been damaged. Tens of thousands of people remain missing.
International aid has been pouring in. The European Union has mobilized over 520 rescuers from the Czech Republic, France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Portugal, Spain, and Luxembourg. Spain deployed 59 military personnel from its Military Emergency Unit, along with two army engineers and eight canine units. An additional 40 personnel and four dogs from Madrid have also arrived. The Netherlands sent 64 Urban Search and Rescue specialists with eight search dogs. Switzerland contributed 80 specialists, eight search dogs, and 18 tons of equipment.
Italy is using its air force and personnel from the foreign ministry, defense ministry, fire brigade, and civil protection. The first Italian military aircraft has landed in Venezuela. France deployed a detachment from its Civil Security regiments, including rescue, rubble-clearance, medical, and canine teams. The United States sent search and rescue teams from California and Virginia, supported by military personnel, doctors, engineers, firefighters, and search dogs. US Southern Command has deployed transport aircraft, Chinook helicopters, and the USS Billings. President Donald Trump stated that the US is ready to help.
