Remains of three Ecuadorians killed in Venezuela earthquakes arrive in Ecuador

The remains of three Ecuadorian citizens who perished in the recent earthquakes in Venezuela have arrived in Ecuador, the country's Foreign Ministry announced. The double earthquake in Venezuela has resulted in over 2,600 deaths, 12,666 injuries, and extensive material damage.

The flight carrying the bodies also brought back 18 other Ecuadorians who received government assistance, bringing the total number of repatriated citizens to 36. The Foreign Ministry activated consular protection mechanisms to support the families and arranged the repatriation using an Ecuadorian Air Force aircraft.

Ecuador has been actively involved in providing aid to Venezuela. On Friday, it sent its fourth flight carrying humanitarian assistance, including water, hygiene supplies, and essential goods. In total, Ecuador has dispatched over 30 tons of aid since the emergency began.

To further support its citizens in Venezuela, Ecuador sent a team of officials to reinforce consular services for 30 days. These officials will operate from Ecuador's Section of Interests in Caracas, focusing on issuing passports, registering births, marriages, and deaths, and coordinating assisted returns, despite the lack of formal diplomatic relations with the Venezuelan government.