A fresh team of Cuban specialists—comprising rescuers, surgeons, and forensic experts—arrived in Venezuela on Monday to assist with search and medical efforts following the catastrophic earthquakes on June 24. This was announced by the Cuban Medical Brigade in Venezuela through their social media channels.
The team, part of the Henry Reeve Contingent, touched down at Arturo Michelena International Airport in Valencia, Carabobo. They were welcomed by Cuban ambassador Jorge Mayo, Dr. Yusleivy Martínez Carmona, head of the Cuban Medical Brigade in Venezuela, and Víctor Fidel Gaute, head of the National Working Group.
This contingent joins the initial group that arrived on Sunday as the first wave of the Special Rescue and Salvage Brigade. This first group included three dogs trained to locate people trapped under debris and was also greeted by Venezuela's Deputy Minister for Latin America, Mauricio Rodríguez.
The June 24 earthquakes—two quakes measuring 7.2 and 7.5 magnitudes that struck the northern region of the country just 39 seconds apart—are the most destructive recorded in Venezuela since 1900.
By the end of Monday, the official toll had risen to 1,719 deaths and 5,034 injuries, according to Jorge Rodríguez, president of the Venezuelan National Assembly. Meanwhile, the UN estimates up to 50,000 people are missing.
Over 189 buildings collapsed, mainly in La Guaira and Caracas, and at least 15,866 individuals have been rendered homeless. Economic damages are estimated at $6.7 billion.
Alongside the humanitarian efforts, the Cuban regime faces a difficult situation: at least 30 Cubans are reported missing under the rubble in areas such as Caraballeda, Catia La Mar, and Los Corales in La Guaira state.
On Sunday, the tragic death of a Cuban family of six was confirmed after they were discovered lifeless beneath the ruins in Playa Grande. The victims included Alain Rodríguez Rojas, Yadina de la Caridad Yáñez Linares, Teresa Rojas Rodríguez, Raudel Diosdado Rodríguez, six-year-old Dylan Xander Rodríguez Yáñez, and Gladys María Linares.
The Cuban Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MINREX) delayed acknowledging the casualties, with Ana Teresita González Fraga, Director General of Consular Affairs, stating on June 27 that "so far, we have no official confirmation" of Cuban nationals being injured, deceased, or missing.
The Cuban Medical Brigade in Venezuela concluded their statement with a phrase encapsulating the official narrative of their mission: "There are no distances or borders when it comes to saving lives. Two nations, one heart beating with hope."
Key Details on Cuban Medical Assistance in Venezuela
What is the role of the Henry Reeve Contingent in Venezuela?
The Henry Reeve Contingent, composed of Cuban specialists, is in Venezuela to aid in rescue and medical operations following devastating earthquakes.
How many people have been affected by the earthquakes in Venezuela?
The earthquakes have resulted in 1,719 deaths, 5,034 injuries, and up to 50,000 missing individuals, with significant economic damages and homelessness reported.
What challenges is the Cuban government facing in Venezuela?
The Cuban government is dealing with the issue of at least 30 Cubans missing under rubble in affected areas, which complicates their humanitarian efforts.