The US State Department announced that it is fully coordinating with the provisional government to conduct humanitarian relief efforts following the devastating earthquakes that struck Venezuela last week.
A department official said in a statement, "As a result of the unprecedented US response to these deadly earthquakes, we have achieved full coordination with the provisional authorities in Venezuela." The official stated that every request was immediately met and that the Venezuelan people have shown great support for Americans in the region.
Two earthquakes, with magnitudes of 7.2 and 7.5, hit the northern parts of the South American country. Officials said the death toll is approaching 2,000 and continues to rise.
The US government moved quickly in response to the crisis, activating a $150 million humanitarian aid package. Additionally, a Disaster Assistance Response Team (DART) of more than 250 personnel, including three specialized urban search and rescue (USAR) teams, was deployed.
The US military also provided logistical support. Equipment and personnel were transported to the region aboard military transport aircraft as part of the relief efforts.
The operation came after US special forces captured former Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro in a midnight raid in January and brought him to the US. Maduro is held in New York, awaiting trial on drug terrorism and weapons charges.
The capture of Maduro drew criticism, particularly from progressive politicians. Senator Bernie Sanders said the operation risked violating international law, while Representative Rashida Tlaib described the US as a "rogue state." Senator Chris Murphy said, "Maduro's illegitimate election does not give the president the authority to act without congressional approval."
Following Maduro's detention, Venezuela's Supreme Court appointed Delcy Rodríguez as provisional president. US officials stressed that diplomatic relations have been reestablished but that this cooperation is temporary and Rodríguez's presidency is not seen as a permanent solution.
