United States announces $150 million aid for Venezuela after earthquakes

The United States has pledged $150 million to support humanitarian assistance efforts in Venezuela after devastating earthquakes struck the country. The aid package aims to provide crucial relief in the wake of the disaster, which has left a significant number of casualties and damaged infrastructure.

Of the total amount, $100 million will be directed through the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) in Venezuela. The remaining $50 million will be distributed to non-governmental organizations and international agencies actively working on the ground to provide aid. Notable recipients include World Vision, Samaritan's Purse, Catholic Relief Services, International Medical Corps, the International Organization for Migration (IOM), and the World Food Programme (WFP).

In addition to financial aid, the U.S. administration has mobilized two elite search and rescue teams. These teams, comprising firefighters, medical personnel, structural engineers, and canine units, originate from the fire departments of Fairfax County, Virginia, and Los Angeles, California. They possess prior experience in disaster response, having been deployed to Jamaica following Hurricane Melissa.

The logistical challenges of the rescue operations are being addressed in coordination with the Pentagon, particularly due to damage sustained by Maiquetía International Airport, which serves Caracas. Venezuelan authorities report that the earthquakes have resulted in 188 fatalities, 1,520 injuries, and damage to at least 346 structures, including hospitals and commercial buildings.