International aid workers arrive in Venezuela following earthquakes
Rescue workers from around the world have been dispatched to support rescue efforts, while a number of foreign nationals have been identified among the dead and missing
Members of rescue teams from Switzerland and Mexico have arrived in Venezuela following Wednesday’s deadly earthquakes, which has been confirmed to have killed at least 589 people so far, with estimates being far higher.
Eighty rescue workers and 18 tonnes of supplies, as well as eight dogs, arrived from Switzerland early on 26 June, according to reports by Venezuelan media, with more workers and supplies also arriving from Mexico.
A Dutch rescue team comprised of 65 rescue workers and eight dogs has also departed for Venezuela, while the US Southern Command reported that it had sent one of its senior military officials to help oversee support efforts.
Foreign nationals missing or dead
The devastating earthquakes, which registered at 7.2 and 7.5 magnitude, have also injured almost 3,000 people alongside those killed, and at least 50,000 more have been reported missing.
Among those dead or missing are a number of foreign nationals. This includes three Spanish nationals who were reported dead – with 99 more missing. Additionally, nine Portuguese nationals, an Italian-Venezuelan, two Chinese nationals, and two Brazilians were also killed in the disaster.
Oliver Cuenca
Oliver Cuenca is a Junior Editor for Voyageur Group, joining in 2021. He writes for both ITIJ and AirMed&Rescue, covering a range of topics including international travel and health insurance, medical assistance provision and air medical transportation. He also serves as Title Editor of the Assistance & Repatriation Reviews. Oliver holds an MA in Magazine Journalism from Cardiff University, as well as a BA in English with Creative Writing from Falmouth University.