Update on SOUTHCOM support for Venezuela earthquake relief, July 2

Nearly 2,000 U.S. military personnel are supporting the State Department-led earthquake relief effort in Venezuela under the direction of U.S. Southern Command, operating near the June 24 epicenter and from logistics hubs in Puerto Rico and Curaçao.

The Humanitarian Assistance Coordination Center is overseeing the mission, working with local authorities, the State Department, Allies, partners and other agencies on the ground to speed the delivery of aid to victims.

U.S. Air Force C-17 Globemaster and C-130 Hercules aircraft continue to move personnel, supplies and equipment, including a high-capacity loader delivered to Simón Bolívar International Airport in Maiquetía to rapidly offload relief cargo for transport to communities in need.

U.S. Marine Corps, Navy and Army vertical-lift and rotary-wing aircraft are providing airlift and transport flights. A Contingency Response Element remains fully operational at Simón Bolívar International Airport, supporting airfield improvements and the safe resumption of air traffic.

Sailors and Marines with all-terrain trucks and vehicles are assisting the State Department and international partners aiding Venezuelans. The USS Fort Lauderdale remains berthed at La Guaira Port as a communications and distribution node, while the USS Billings’ flight deck is enabling rotary-wing operations to reach otherwise inaccessible areas.

The U.S. military is closely coordinating with the State Department, Venezuelan disaster response personnel, and other partners and Allies contributing to the international relief effort. Updated information will be posted on SOUTHCOM’s official social media accounts.