The United States is organizing a humanitarian response after twin earthquakes—magnitudes 7.1 and 7.5—struck Venezuela on Wednesday, killing at least 164 people. The Pentagon’s Southern Command (SOUTHCOM) said its joint forces are moving quickly to provide the U.S. military’s airlift, logistics and lifesaving capabilities to assist the Venezuelan government.
SOUTHCOM confirmed that an operational planning team, including experts from the Bureau for Humanitarian Assistance, is advising senior staff on disaster‑relief planning. The command is also working closely with regional partners and allies that have pledged assistance. While the statement did not confirm the deployment of troops, it emphasized that the military’s role will focus on air transport and logistical support.
At the direction of the Pentagon, the State Department has activated a task force to coordinate the delivery of aid. Jeremy Lewin, the department’s humanitarian affairs lead, said the U.S. will dispatch search‑and‑rescue teams, medical supplies and other resources in the critical first days. President Donald Trump reiterated that the United States stands “ready, willing, and able” to help, urging all agencies to act swiftly.
