The United Nations is mobilizing humanitarian assistance and facilitating the deployment of urban search-and-rescue teams to Venezuela following devastating earthquakes that struck the country, a UN spokesman said Thursday.
UN Mobilizes Assistance
“The United Nations in Venezuela, including the Humanitarian Country Team, is mobilizing assistance and working closely with the Government and our partners to support the response,” UN spokesman Stephane Dujarric said in a statement. “The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs is facilitating the deployment of urban search-and-rescue teams. The Secretary-General welcomes the offers of solidarity and support from Member States at this critical time,” he added.
Secretary-General Expresses Sadness
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres is “deeply saddened” by the loss of life and widespread destruction caused by the earthquakes, extending his condolences to the families of the victims and wishing a speedy recovery to those injured, according to Dujarric. Guterres welcomed offers of support from UN member states and expressed solidarity with the people and government of Venezuela during the crisis, he added.
Earthquake Impact and Emergency Response
Late Wednesday, powerful earthquakes struck Venezuela's northern Caribbean coast, causing widespread damage and triggering tsunami warnings across the region. The quakes killed at least 164 people and injured 900 others. Acting President Delcy Rodriguez declared a national state of emergency. The UN continues to coordinate with local authorities to assess needs and deliver aid.
