At least 132 dead in powerful earthquake in Colombia; Kyiv also targeted by attacks

A strong 7.4 magnitude earthquake has devastated western Colombia, claiming the lives of at least 132 people and leaving over 570 injured. The quake's epicenter was located in San José del Palmar in the Chocó department, striking at a depth of 107 kilometers. Two subsequent tremors, measuring 2.8 and 4.8 magnitude, followed the initial event.

President Abelardo de la Espriella has declared a state of disaster, reporting that more than 1,500 homes have been damaged. Cities such as Cali, Pereira, Manizales, Quibdó, and Medellín have suffered severe impacts. In Cali, the neonatal and pediatric wards of a hospital collapsed. While the capital, Bogotá, experienced shaking, damage there was limited to cracks in facades and walls.

Rescue operations are actively underway amidst the debris, with authorities concerned that the number of fatalities will increase as many individuals are feared to be trapped beneath collapsed structures. International aid has been offered, with the United States pledging $15.5 million in emergency assistance. Mexico and other South American nations have also extended their support, and the EU is utilizing its Copernicus satellite for rescue efforts.

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Our house has basically been left in ruins, and the building next to ours? It has collapsed completely.