US military ends Venezuela earthquake aid mission after one month

The United States military has concluded its one-month earthquake relief mission in Venezuela, withdrawing the last troops, General Francis Donovan of U.S. Southern Command confirmed Source: lavozar; infobae.

What happened

The deployment, triggered by twin earthquakes of magnitudes 7.2 and 7.5 on June 24, involved 2,000 rescuers, along with aircraft and ships Source: infobae. Donovan stated that although the Pentagon's role ends, "the American people continue to stand with Venezuela" and the State Department will continue recovery efforts Source: lavozar; diariolibree. The U.S. has committed $310 million in aid Source: lavozar.

Impact and politics

Official figures report 5,546 deaths and 17,907 displaced Source: lavozar. A quarter of inspected homes are partially or totally uninhabitable Source: lavozar. Acting President Delcy Rodríguez announced a reconstruction master plan. Separately, President Donald Trump said Energy Secretary Chris Wright is "directing" Venezuela, and has moved closer to Rodríguez after Maduro's capture on January 3 Source: infobae; diariolibree. A memorial service was held in Caraballeda, one of the hardest-hit areas Source: lavozar.