Members of the Cuban medical brigade stationed in the Venezuelan state of La Guaira swiftly responded in the aftermath of two earthquakes measuring 7.2 and 7.5 on the Richter scale that shook Venezuela on Wednesday, June 24. According to a report from the Cuban state channel Canal Caribe, these doctors treated the injured in local Comprehensive Diagnostic Centers (CDI).
La Guaira, one of the areas hit hardest by the tremors, has been declared a disaster zone. As of Friday, the Venezuelan Health Minister Carlos Alvarado reported 235 fatalities and over 4,500 injuries, with 157 individuals still missing and 200 trapped under debris.
The Canal Caribe report highlighted the dedication of Cuban doctors who, despite being off duty, rushed to CDIs as soon as they received a call from the Venezuelan National Guard. "We were notified while at home and quickly came to provide service to our Venezuelan brothers arriving at the CDI with injuries, bruises, hypertensive crises, and whatever else was needed. The Venezuelan people can always rely on us, the Cuban doctors," stated one of the physicians on camera.
Efforts of Cuban Brigades and Diplomacy
Cuban Ambassador to Venezuela, Jorge Luis Mayo Fernández, along with the head of the Medical Brigade, Dr. Yusleivy Martínez Carmona, conducted an assessment tour of the affected regions in La Guaira to evaluate the condition of the staff and services offered.
Dr. Martínez Carmona explained that, once the safety of all the cooperatives was confirmed, the doctors themselves requested to join the relief efforts. "After contacting all 24 coordinators and ensuring that all our cooperatives were in good health, they themselves asked to engage in healthcare services," the brigade leader affirmed.
He also conveyed reassurance to families in Cuba: "It's important to inform all Cuban families with cooperatives in Venezuela that they can remain calm; the cooperatives here are in perfect health, providing medical assistance and demonstrating the long-standing commitment of Cuban public health to the Venezuelan people."
The Situation on the Ground
One Venezuelan patient treated at the CDI praised the Cuban doctors: "They are wonderful. There's nothing more to say about them. They are the best Cuban doctors here."
The Venezuelan hospital system was overwhelmed by the influx of casualties. The José María Vargas Hospital in La Guaira exceeded its capacity, moving triage to the parking area, while eight hospitals across the country were impacted.
Cuban leader Miguel Díaz-Canel expressed condolences on social media platform X, noting that "Cuban healthcare personnel are actively assisting those affected." Acting Venezuelan President Delcy Rodríguez thanked Díaz-Canel in response, acknowledging Cuba's support during such trying times.
Cuban Medical Mission's Challenges
As of July 2025, official data indicated that the Cuban Medical Mission in Venezuela had approximately 12,930 collaborators spread across the country's 24 states. However, the mission has faced challenges since the fall of Nicolás Maduro's government in January 2026, prompting Cuba to gradually repatriate personnel.
Earlier this year in March, two Cuban doctors died in Venezuela under circumstances that led to public outcry from their families.
Frequently Asked Questions about Cuban Medical Efforts in Venezuela
What roles do Cuban doctors play in Venezuela after natural disasters?
Cuban doctors provide critical medical assistance, treating injuries and supporting local health services that may be overwhelmed during disasters such as earthquakes.
How has the Venezuelan hospital system coped with the earthquake aftermath?
The system struggled with the surge of casualties, leading to some hospitals exceeding capacity and setting up triage areas in alternative spaces like parking lots.
How many Cuban medical personnel are currently in Venezuela?
As of July 2025, the Cuban Medical Mission in Venezuela consists of around 12,930 collaborators distributed throughout the country's 24 states.