US deploys over 900 troops to quake-hit Venezuela amid political shift

The United States has deployed over 900 military personnel and two naval vessels to Venezuela following the devastating 24 June earthquakes, in an unprecedented cooperative effort with the interim government of President Delcy Rodríguez. The operation, led by SOUTHCOM commander General Francis Donovan, includes Marines, airmen, and naval assets such as the USS Fort Lauderdale, aimed at search-and-rescue and infrastructure reopening Source: elcolombiano; eldiado.

The Deployment

• Personnel & equipment: More than 900 troops on the ground, with another 800 on standby in Puerto Rico and Curaçao. Five MQ-9 Reaper drones provide intelligence, while C-17 Globemasters and MV-22 Ospreys move supplies Source: infobae; elcolombiano.
• Naval presence: The amphibious transport dock USS Fort Lauderdale (208 m, 25,000 tons) is anchored off La Guaira, serving as a command center, supported by the littoral combat ship USS Billings Source: clarin.
• Airport control: U.S. Marines and Air Force personnel manage the tower and ground operations at Maiquetía International Airport to accelerate aid flow, though the Venezuelan government initially denied any foreign control Source: elnacionalve.

Cooperation and Controversy

The rapid U.S. response marks a sharp reversal from the hostile relations under former President Nicolás Maduro, who was captured by U.S. forces in January. Delcy Rodríguez thanked President Trump, while General Donovan noted the logistical complexity Source: infobae; abces. However, some Venezuelan outlets and analysts question whether the humanitarian mission serves as a cover for establishing a permanent military foothold, citing the presence of Marines and the commander's comment, "I would stay forever" Source: lavanguardia; abces.

Humanitarian Impact

The earthquakes (magnitudes 7.2 and 7.5) killed at least 3,535 people (official figure) and damaged thousands of buildings. The U.S. has pledged over $300 million in aid, with Starlink providing free satellite internet Source: infobae; larepublicaco. Meanwhile, local hospitals face critical shortages of medical supplies Source: elcolombiano.