The Daily Journal. — The U.S. Southern Command (SOUTHCOM) announced the immediate deployment of operational forces to support rescue and relief efforts across Venezuela following yesterday’s devastating earthquakes. The military operation follows direct orders from U.S. defense leadership in coordination with Washington’s diplomatic channels.
“As directed by the Department of War, U.S. Southern Command is currently working with the Department of State to support U.S. government relief operations in Venezuela in response to yesterday’s devastating earthquakes,” the military command said in an official statement released Thursday.
The deployment will focus primarily on reinforcing the efforts of local civil protection agencies as they search for survivors trapped beneath collapsed structures.
“Our joint forces are moving quickly to deliver the unmatched airlift, logistics, and lifesaving capabilities of the U.S. military to help save lives and support the Government of Venezuela during this crisis,” the command said in a post on X.
Humanitarian assistance strategy and advisory support
SOUTHCOM has activated a specialized unit to direct on-the-ground operations and coordinate the mission’s technical decisions.
The military command explained that “the command has established an operational planning team that includes experienced subject matter experts from the Office of Humanitarian Assistance. These experts are advising the staff and leadership responsible for disaster relief planning and mission-related decisions.”
The command also confirmed that it has already established strategic coordination with neighboring governments and allied military forces across the hemisphere, “which have committed to joining the ongoing international assistance effort to help the people of Venezuela during their time of need.”
