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The United States (US) has deployed search-and-rescue teams to Venezuela to support relief efforts following the devastating earthquakes that struck the country.
The US Department of State, in a post shared on X, said, “Search and rescue teams from California and Virginia are in Venezuela helping with rescue efforts, with more help on the way.”
It added that the teams are “supported by the U.S. military” and are “comprised of brave doctors, engineers, firefighters, and some well-trained four-legged friends.”
The deployment follows Venezuela’s struggles to recover from two powerful earthquakes measuring 7.2 and 7.5 in magnitude that struck the country’s northern coast on June 24.
The quakes caused widespread destruction, particularly in and around Caracas and the coastal state of La Guaira, killing hundreds of people, injuring thousands more and leaving many trapped beneath collapsed buildings.
Authorities have warned that the death toll is expected to rise as rescue operations continue.
The US military is providing extensive logistical support for the humanitarian mission. According to US Southern Command, Air Force C-17 aircraft transported urban search-and-rescue teams from Los Angeles, California, and Fairfax County, Virginia, while additional aircraft, helicopters, naval vessels and satellite imagery have been deployed to support search, rescue and relief operations requested by the Venezuelan government.
The US is among several countries that have responded to Venezuela’s appeal for international assistance. Countries including France and Germany have sent rescue personnel, medical teams, equipment or humanitarian aid to support recovery efforts.
International organisations, including the United Nations and the Red Cross, are also coordinating relief operations.
The international response has intensified as rescuers race against time to locate survivors during the critical first days after the disaster, with thousands of people displaced and widespread damage reported across affected communities.
Search and rescue teams from California and Virginia are in Venezuela helping with rescue efforts, with more help on the way.
These teams are supported by the U.S. military, and are comprised of brave doctors, engineers, firefighters, and some well-trained four-legged friends. pic.twitter.com/e4ZMknnK9B
— Department of State (@StateDept) June 26, 2026
