June 28, 2026

US Sends Emergency Aid to Quake-Ravaged Venezuela

In the aftermath of devastating earthquakes in Venezuela, the United States has mobilized emergency assistance. Fox News correspondent Nate Foy reports from the chaotic scene in Caracas, where rescue operations continue despite the soaring death toll. Over 1,400 people have died, and more than 68,900 remain unaccounted for. The U.S. military collaborates with local teams to extract survivors from a collapsed 17-story building, racing against the 72-hour survival window.

Rescue operations over the weekend discovered 33 individuals alive within the ruins. However, authorities warn time is crucial for the nearly 50,000 people still missing. According to The Associated Press, the death toll had reached 1,430 by late Saturday evening. Additionally, over 3,000 individuals sustained injuries, with a similar number now residing in temporary shelters.

The coastal area of La Guaira experiences the heaviest destruction. Consecutive 7.2 and 7.5 magnitude earthquakes Wednesday reduced numerous structures to rubble. Continuous aftershocks hamper rescue efforts and force survivors to remain outdoors in intense heat.

Remarkable rescues include an infant saved by U.S. teams, an 11-year-old discovered by Colombian rescuers below the surface, and another 11-year-old found by Mexican crews in Caraballeda. In these moments, as Acting President Delcy Rodríguez noted, each life saved brings hope to Venezuela.

Swiss rescue-team leader Sebastian Eugster explained that the chances of finding survivors considerably decline beyond 72 hours under debris. This critical time passed by Saturday evening.

The number of missing persons fluctuates, with the government and aid workers providing varying estimates. Official chaos following the quakes illustrates the challenges in accounting for the deceased, displaced, and unreachable due to communication breakdowns. On Sunday, estimates fell to just under 50,000 from 55,000 missing the previous day. Nonetheless, AP reported families noted 68,900 individuals as missing on Saturday.

U.S. aid includes a $150M pledge and deploying Navy warships. In addition, Starlink offers vital communication services amidst the humanitarian crisis.

Starlink Mobile supports connectivity for MovistarVe users in La Guaira and aims to extend services to DigitelAyuda and movilnet_ve customers. Compatible LTE phones can send SMS, guaranteeing connectivity despite terrestrial network issues when a clear sky view is possible.

Pope Leo voiced solidarity with the affected Venezuelan citizens, highlighting the importance of hope. “I wish to express my closeness to the Venezuelan sisters and brothers affected by the recent earthquakes that caused numerous victims and injuries,” he stated.

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