US, Cuba and Iran join global rescue effort after Venezuela earthquakes

Two back-to-back earthquakes on the evening of 24 June, measuring 7.2 and 7.5, killed at least 164 people, injured close to 1,000 and caused significant damage to Caracas and areas across northern Venezuela. Countries around the world pledged help. Marco Rubio, US secretary of state, said the US would provide a whole-of-government response, promising it would be big, fast and effective and that the Department of War would play a major logistical role.

Cuban health workers were already on the scene and fully mobilised, and Iran announced its readiness to provide assistance. The Netherlands pledged about €2m to send a rescue team with workers, dogs and equipment; Spain and France said they would send dozens of rescuers; Germany promised six military transport planes; Switzerland offered emergency teams and rescue dogs; and China said it was ready to send whatever was needed.

Venezuela, Caracas

venezuela, caracas, earthquakes, 7.5 magnitude, 7.2 magnitude, casualties, united states, cuba, iran, rescue teams