Mexico prepares 255 military personnel and aid for Colombia earthquake response

Mexico is poised to deploy a specialized contingent of 255 military personnel and substantial humanitarian aid to Colombia in response to the devastating magnitude 7.4 earthquake that struck the country. The Mexican Army has activated the 'Agrupamiento Cali,' a unit similar to one previously sent to Venezuela, comprising search and rescue specialists, canine teams, and medical personnel. This readiness comes as Mexico awaits a formal request for assistance from the Colombian government. The aid package includes four tons of medicine, 8.4 tons of rescue equipment, satellite phones, generators, and tents. Additionally, Mexico has prepared 8,798 food pantries and 13,890 food baskets. The deployment plan involves transporting personnel and some supplies via two Boeing aircraft, with additional humanitarian aid to be carried by a C-130 Hercules and a Spartan aircraft. The intended destination is the Alfonso Bonilla Aragón International Airport, serving Cali, Colombia. President Claudia Sheinbaum emphasized that the deployment hinges on an official request from Colombian authorities, stating, "We are waiting for the formal request from the Government of Colombia, we are ready for the moment they tell us we can go and help." The preparation of this contingent aligns with Mexico's policy of providing humanitarian assistance to countries in Latin America facing emergencies. The earthquake, which occurred on Monday, has resulted in hundreds of deaths and injuries, with its epicenter located in San José del Palmar, Chocó, at a depth of 103 kilometers.

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We are waiting for the formal request from the Government of Colombia, we are ready for the moment they tell us we can go and help.