U.S. military deploys major aid effort to Venezuela following devastating earthquakes, delivering support after the initial rescue phase.
U.S. search and rescue teams, supported by military assets, deployed to Venezuela after earthquakes struck on June 24, 2026, where at least 920 people have been killed and 51,000 are missing. The State Department confirmed the commitment of over $386 million in financial assistance flowing through partner groups. U.S. troops were seen unloading aid, including supplies that arrived via an Air China plane carrying aid from the Chinese government. A State Department spokesman named Tommy Pigott stated that the United States continues to deliver aid efficiently to the disaster zone. The U.S. military helped repair Simón Bolívar Airport, allowing larger aircraft to land and ensure vital supplies reached those in need. Global Empowerment Mission (GEM) founder Michael Capponi emphasized that the effort is ensuring supplies do not pass through the local government. U.S. Southern Command assigned military forces to support the effort at the direction of the U.S. Department of State.