Political Red Tape Delayed US Rescuers in Venezuela Earthquake Response

Political roadblocks significantly hampered the efforts of U.S. rescue workers attempting to aid victims of recent earthquakes in Venezuela. Authorities, under Delcy Rodríguez, initially denied landing permission to seven specialists from Strategic Response Partners, who had departed from Miami equipped with industrial saws capable of cutting concrete and steel.

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If they had let us in earlier, we could have helped save lives.

The rescue team's aircraft was en route when air traffic control in Venezuela revoked the landing permit without providing a reason. This bureaucratic hurdle forced the team to return to the Dominican Republic, where they waited for diplomatic contacts to secure the necessary permissions. The approval eventually came 15 hours later.

By the time the rescuers reached a military base near La Guaira on June 30, the crucial hours for finding survivors trapped in the rubble had already elapsed. "If they had let us in earlier, we could have helped save lives," said Michael Saavedra, the team leader. He likened the situation to joining a game with only four minutes left, without any support or plans.

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Imagine entering the game when there are only four minutes left. Without plans, without a coach, without any help.

Steve Slepcevic, CEO of Strategic Response Partners, who has extensive experience in disaster management, criticized the Venezuelan government's response. He attributed the collapse of buildings in La Guaira to faulty construction. "In over 35 years, this is, by far, the worst experience I have ever had," Slepcevic stated. Both international and national rescue teams reportedly cite political obstacles as the primary cause for delays in responding to Venezuela's most severe seismic emergency in over a century. Official figures indicate 3,889 deaths and nearly 17,000 injuries from the earthquakes.

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In over 35 years, this is, by far, the worst experience I have ever had.