US military rushing aid to Venezuela after powerful twin earthquakes strike
Key takeaways
- The temblors caused buildings in Caracas, the South American nation s capital, to collapse, videos shared online show.
- The first earthquake measured 7.2 on the Richter scale, according to the U.S.
- Secretary of State Marco Rubio said he spoke with Rodr guez on Thursday and that the U.S. was sending rescue teams.
Why this matters: political developments that affect policy direction and public trust.
The U.S. Southern Command (Southcom) said Thursday, at the direction of Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, its forces are moving quickly to bring the unmatched airlift, logistics and lifesaving capabilities of the U.S. military to help save lives and support the Government of Venezuela during this crisis.
The command, which oversees U.S. forces in Central and South America, added that it has established an operational planning team that includes experienced subject matter experts from the Bureau for Humanitarian Assistance, who are advising staff and leadership responsible for disaster relief planning and mission-related decisions.
The command has also initiated close coordination with other partners and allies in the region who have pledged to join the international assistance underway to aid the people of Venezuela in their time of need, Southcom continued in the statement.