Former President Donald Trump said the United States is prepared to offer assistance to Venezuela after two powerful earthquakes struck the South American nation, causing what he described as "a devastating number of deaths."
"The U.S.A. stands ready, willing, and able to help!" Trump stated on Truth Social late Wednesday. "I have instructed all agencies of our government to get ready to move quickly. We will be there for our new and great friends."
The comments came after a pair of massive earthquakes rocked Venezuela earlier Wednesday, leading to widespread damage, particularly in the capital of Caracas. The U.S. Geological Survey reported an initial magnitude 7.2 earthquake at 6:04 p.m. ET, followed just 39 seconds later by a magnitude 7.5 quake. The USGS issued a rare red alert, warning that "High casualties and extensive damage are probable, and the disaster is likely widespread."
According to Venezuela's interim President Delcy Rodríguez, at least 32 people were killed and more than 700 were injured in the quakes. Rodríguez declared a state of emergency and urged citizens to remain calm and united.
U.S. Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau confirmed on X that American officials were in contact with Venezuelan authorities and mobilizing assistance. "The U.S. stands with the Venezuelan people in the aftermath of this evening's devastating earthquakes," he wrote.
The State Department's Bureau of Western Hemisphere Affairs also stated it was closely monitoring the situation and extended condolences to the victims. The bureau urged U.S. citizens in Venezuela to enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) and monitor embassy updates.
The earthquakes were reported to be among the strongest to hit Venezuela in over a century, with nearly two dozen aftershocks recorded. Rescue crews were seen searching through rubble in damaged areas of Caracas. The disaster prompted scenes of players and fans fleeing a baseball stadium during a game when the tremors began.
