A Venezuelan official has drawn widespread criticism after a video surfaced that appears to show him obstructing American humanitarian aid following a series of powerful earthquakes. The footage depicts Diosdado Cabello, identified as a local politician and alleged drug lord, in a heated exchange with a U.S. rescue team in La Guaira.
The video, shared by Florida Congressman Mario Diaz-Balart, shows Cabello directing the American team to "Back up. Back to the truck." When a rescuer questioned if they were not wanted to help, Cabello appeared to dismiss concerns, even shoving away a phone offered by one of the aid workers. Another rescuer pointed out a person nearby needing assistance, but Cabello continued to dispute their efforts.
The earthquakes, a 7.2 magnitude quake followed by a 7.5 magnitude tremor, struck the South American nation, resulting in at least 1,450 deaths, approximately 1,500 injuries, and tens of thousands missing. In the wake of the disaster, international aid, including from the United States, arrived to support relief efforts.
Florida Congressman Mario Diaz-Balart stated that the U.S. is closely monitoring the situation and warned against any interference with humanitarian relief efforts. Online reactions expressed outrage, with many users condemning Cabello's actions and calling for accountability.
Cabello serves as the Minister of Interior, Justice and Peace, a position that places him in charge of the country's internal security, including police and intelligence services. The notes mention that Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro is currently being held in the U.S. on drug trafficking and corruption charges, with Delcy Rodríguez serving as the acting president.
Despite the controversy, rescue operations have continued. U.S. soldiers have been observed patrolling streets in La Guaira. Amidst the ongoing tragedy, a mother and her nine-month-old baby were rescued from a collapsed building, and a man and his teenage son were found alive under rubble in Caraballeda. However, hopes for finding more survivors have dwindled as the critical 72-hour window for rescues passed. The earthquakes have devastated the country, which is already grappling with an economic crisis, leaving millions without essential services.