In response to the catastrophic earthquakes that struck northern Venezuela on June 24, measuring 7.2 and 7.5 in magnitude, Mexico has mobilized a specialized rescue team to aid in the search for survivors. The natural disaster has resulted in at least 920 fatalities.
During her Friday morning press conference, President Claudia Sheinbaum outlined the scope of Mexico's relief efforts: "A total of 250 military personnel, 18 search dogs, and representatives from the Foreign Affairs Department have been deployed. We have also sent medical supplies, tools, and equipment. They were received by Venezuelan authorities last night. Three planes were involved in the transport, and rescue operations commenced early this morning in the assigned area," she stated.
The rescue group, known as Yomare Task Force, consists of military experts from the Secretaría de la Defensa Nacional (Sedena), along with 18 canine units trained to locate individuals trapped beneath collapsed structures.
The aircraft carrying the personnel and supplies landed in Venezuela on the night of June 25, and the teams began their operations at the designated sites as dawn broke on Friday. Two officials from the Foreign Affairs Department have also joined the mission to enhance diplomatic coordination between the two nations.
Sheinbaum has scheduled a call with Venezuela's interim president Delcy Rodríguez to discuss further assistance needs: "After today's morning briefing, I will speak with Venezuela's interim president to assess their additional requirements and determine what further support we can offer," she mentioned.
The June 24 earthquakes, the most severe in Venezuela since 1900 according to the U.S. Geological Survey, were centered in Yaracuy state. They have caused extensive destruction, notably in La Guaira and the Greater Caracas region, which has been declared a natural disaster zone.
As of Friday's end, the official toll lists 920 dead, 3,360 injured, and 157 missing. More than 200 individuals remain trapped under rubble, and at least 346 buildings have either collapsed or sustained critical damage.
The global response to this calamity has been substantial. President Donald Trump has sanctioned $150 million in humanitarian aid and dispatched two urban search and rescue teams, each comprising approximately 80 experts, along with helicopters and military aircraft.
El Salvador has sent 300 personnel, while Spain has deployed its Military Emergency Unit and a field hospital. Overall, over a thousand rescue workers from 16 countries are participating in the relief operations.
The United Nations estimates that 6.76 million people have been impacted by service outages, infrastructure damage, and potential displacement, marking this disaster as one of the most severe in Venezuela's recent history.
FAQs on Mexico's Rescue Efforts in Venezuela
What is the Yomare Task Force?
The Yomare Task Force is a specialized rescue group composed of military personnel from Mexico's Secretaría de la Defensa Nacional (Sedena) and canine units trained for emergency situations, particularly for locating people trapped under debris.
How has the international community responded to the Venezuela earthquakes?
The international community, including the United States, El Salvador, and Spain, has responded by sending humanitarian aid, rescue teams, and support personnel. The UN has estimated significant impacts, urging global assistance in response to the disaster.
What measures has the United States taken to support Venezuela?
The United States has authorized $150 million in humanitarian aid and deployed two specialized search and rescue teams, helicopters, and military aircraft to assist in the rescue efforts in Venezuela.