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International support continued to pour into Venezuela on Friday after twin earthquakes killed at least 235 people and injured more than 1,500, as countries across the world mobilised rescue teams, emergency aid and medical assistance.
Interim President Delcy Rodríguez announced that United Nations-certified rescuers would join efforts to search for survivors trapped beneath collapsed buildings.
Turkey dispatched a 67-member rescue team comprising search experts, medics, aid workers, two rescue dogs and three military aircraft. Spain, France and Germany also deployed rescue specialists, while Switzerland mobilised 80 personnel, eight rescue dogs and 18 tonnes of emergency equipment.
The Netherlands pledged a €2 million rescue package, while the Czech Republic prepared a search team for deployment. The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies released $2.5 million to support emergency operations, and Pope Leo XIV donated an initial €100,000 in humanitarian assistance.
The United States announced a large-scale relief operation involving two warships, transport aircraft, helicopters and $150 million in aid. Secretary of State Marco Rubio promised a “whole-of-government response” that would be “fast” and “effective.”
President Donald Trump also assured Venezuela of Washington’s backing, saying, “We will be there for our new and great friends.”
China said it was willing to provide assistance based on Venezuela’s needs, while Iran declared its readiness to support ongoing rescue and relief efforts.
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Across Latin America, Brazil sent a field hospital, firefighters and rescue specialists. Mexico deployed military rescuers and medical personnel, with President Claudia Sheinbaum saying, “Mexico always stands in solidarity and always will.”
El Salvador prepared 300 rescuers and 50 tonnes of emergency supplies, while Cuba mobilised health workers. Chile, Colombia, Argentina, Costa Rica, Uruguay, Ecuador and the Dominican Republic also pledged various forms of assistance.
Colombian President Gustavo Petro reaffirmed his country’s support, saying, “Colombia will always help Venezuela.”
Condolences also came from Europe and Asia. Japan expressed its “sincere condolences” despite experiencing a powerful earthquake of its own a day earlier.
Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez offered “full support” to Venezuela, adding, “Our thoughts are with the victims and their families.” Similar messages were issued by Italy’s Giorgia Meloni, Germany’s Friedrich Merz, Ukraine and Russia.
The European Union activated its satellite emergency monitoring system, while EU Aid Commissioner Hadja Lahbib said, “We stand ready to step up assistance.”
Emergency workers continue to search damaged communities as authorities race to locate survivors and deliver aid to thousands affected by one of Venezuela’s deadliest natural disasters in recent years.
