U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio has provided a detailed update on America’s emergency response efforts following a series of powerful and deadly earthquakes that struck Venezuela, causing widespread destruction and leaving many communities in urgent need of assistance.
Rubio stated that the United States is immediately mobilizing search and rescue operations, with specialized emergency response teams already being deployed from Fairfax County Urban Search and Rescue and Los Angeles Fire Department. Additional teams are expected to join the effort in the coming hours as coordination expands.
According to Rubio, the most urgent priority on the ground is search and rescue operations, as many buildings have collapsed and survivors may still be trapped under heavy debris. He emphasized that rapid assistance is critical, particularly in areas where infrastructure has been severely damaged and communication systems have been disrupted.
Immediate Search and Rescue Efforts Underway
“We are already deploying search and rescue teams… Their most immediate need right now is search and rescue efforts. There are many collapsed buildings, and they will need significant support in digging through rubble and reaching survivors,” Rubio said.
He further confirmed that the Department of State has activated its disaster response units and is coordinating broader humanitarian assistance efforts. These teams are working alongside international partners to assess damage, prioritize rescue zones, and deliver emergency aid to affected populations.
Rubio also highlighted that the United States has previous experience in large-scale disaster response operations, referencing past humanitarian missions such as relief efforts in Jamaica following major storms. He noted that those operations helped establish rapid-response frameworks that are now being reactivated for the Venezuela crisis.
Leveraging Previous Disaster Response Experience
“We’ve stood up our disaster response teams and humanitarian efforts. This is something we did effectively in Jamaica after that storm, and it is something we are fully prepared to do again now,” he added.
As the situation continues to develop, U.S. officials say additional resources, personnel, and logistical support may be deployed depending on evolving conditions on the ground. The focus remains on saving lives, stabilizing affected areas, and supporting recovery efforts in coordination with local and international agencies.
