Venezuela offers rescuers and humanitarian aid to Colombia after 7.4 magnitude earthquake

Venezuela has extended an offer of assistance to Colombia after a powerful magnitude 7.4 earthquake struck the neighboring country. The Venezuelan government, through a statement by Foreign Minister Félix Plasencia González, proposed sending rescue teams and humanitarian aid supplies.

The offer highlighted the potential for coordination through existing bilateral mechanisms and national civil protection agencies, should Colombian authorities require support to manage the emergency. The statement also conveyed a message of solidarity with those affected by the quake and extended condolences to the families of those who lost their lives.

"Venezuela stands in solidarity with the families of the victims and with all those who have suffered damage and material losses," the official statement read. The government also wished a speedy recovery to the injured and those impacted by the seismic event, underscoring the historical ties between the two nations.

The proposed cooperation would fully respect Colombia's sovereignty and self-determination. "We reaffirm our commitment to the bonds of brotherhood, cooperation, and Latin American unity that bind us as neighboring peoples," the Venezuelan government added. The earthquake triggered emergency protocols across affected areas in Colombia, with rescue organizations and local authorities assessing damages and assisting those displaced.