US Sends Two Warships and Military Aircraft to Aid Earthquake-Hit Venezuela

The US Southern Command has deployed at least two naval vessels and multiple military transport aircraft to Venezuela as the country reels from a deadly earthquake that killed nearly 200 people and left hundreds more missing under rubble.

US Military Mobilizes Naval and Air Force for Venezuela Earthquake Relief

The US Southern Command announced a major military deployment to Venezuela sending warships and transport planes to help after a catastrophic earthquake.

General Francis Donovan, head of the US Southern Command, authorized the mission. The deployment includes the amphibious transport dock ship USS Fort Lauderdale and the littoral combat ship USS Billings. Also dispatched are C-17 Globemaster and C-130 Hercules cargo planes, surveillance platforms, and military helicopters.

“General Francis Donovan directed significant forces to participate in the operation, including the amphibious transport ship Fort Lauderdale and the littoral combat ship Billings. C-17 Globemaster and C-130 Hercules transport aircraft, reconnaissance platforms, and helicopters will also be involved,” the Southern Command stated.

Mission Focus : Search, Rescue, and Delivery

These assets will transport and support US government personnel alongside search-and-rescue teams and interagency partners. They are actively assessing damage, locating survivors, and delivering life-saving aid across affected regions.

“The Southern Command will continue to work closely with Venezuela’s interim authorities to plan, coordinate, and direct the application of the unmatched logistical and operational capabilities of the US armed forces in support of relief operations in the affected areas,” the command said in its statement.

Venezuela Rocked by Two Powerful Earthquake Sequences

Venezuela suffered two devastating series of tremors in quick succession. The US Geological Survey measured the first sequence at magnitude 7.2 and the second, more powerful series, at magnitude 7.5. At least 30 aftershocks followed in the hours that came after.

Authorities confirmed at least 188 people died. Another 1,520 suffered injuries and 157 remain missing. More than 200 people are still trapped under collapsed structures. Residential buildings crumbled across the country. Infrastructure and hospitals sustained heavy damage and the nation’s main international airport shut its doors.

Russia Also Extends Condolences and Offers Help

Russian President Vladimir Putin conveyed his deepest condolences over the tragic outcome of the disaster. Moscow also announced its readiness to assist Caracas in relief and recovery efforts.