The Trump administration has deployed U.S. military personnel to assist with humanitarian relief efforts in Venezuela after a series of powerful earthquakes caused widespread destruction across the country.
According to U.S. Southern Command (SOUTHCOM), American forces continue arriving in Venezuela as part of a disaster response mission requested by the Venezuelan government. The operation is being coordinated by the U.S. State Department, with the military providing transportation, logistics, communications, and search-and-rescue support.
SOUTHCOM said the mission is designed to help affected communities while remaining fully self-sufficient.
SOUTHCOM said its mission is entirely self-sufficient, with American personnel operating without relying on local supplies or infrastructure as they provide essential humanitarian assistance to people affected by the disaster in Venezuela.
U.S. Marines Assist Search and Rescue Teams
The earthquakes, which struck Venezuela on June 24, caused extensive damage to homes, businesses, and public infrastructure, prompting an international humanitarian response.
Officials with Venezuela’s National Assembly reported Sunday that the confirmed death toll had risen to approximately 1,450, with emergency crews continuing to search damaged buildings for survivors.
SOUTHCOM said U.S. Marines are working alongside American and international first responders in some of the hardest-hit areas.
“Marines on the ground, saving lives,” the command wrote in a social media update.
Military officials said the Marines are helping conduct search-and-rescue operations, transporting emergency supplies, and supporting disaster response teams as they work to reach communities affected by the earthquakes.
Humanitarian Mission Coordinated by U.S. Agencies
The Department of War and the U.S. State Department continue coordinating humanitarian assistance as emergency aid is delivered to regions with the greatest need.
Military officials said the deployment reflects the U.S. military’s ability to respond quickly during major natural disasters by providing specialized equipment, transportation, engineering support, and trained personnel capable of operating in challenging conditions.
Because the operation is fully self-sustaining, American personnel are not relying on local food, fuel, housing, or other resources while carrying out the mission.
Rescue Efforts Continue Around the Clock
SOUTHCOM also released photographs showing U.S. Marines and emergency responders searching damaged buildings for survivors.
In another update, the command said first responders are working day and night to locate people trapped beneath collapsed structures and support international rescue operations.
Officials noted that crews continue to race against time as they search affected communities and provide assistance to residents displaced by the disaster.
Recovery Effort Remains Ongoing
Search-and-rescue operations remain underway as emergency crews assess damage and deliver aid across Venezuela.
U.S. officials say American military personnel will continue supporting humanitarian relief efforts alongside international partners for as long as needed to assist communities recovering from one of the country’s deadliest natural disasters in recent years.
The deployment highlights the role of the U.S. military in responding to international disasters by providing rapid logistical support, specialized rescue capabilities, and humanitarian assistance during large-scale emergencies. As recovery efforts continue, officials say the priority remains saving lives, delivering aid, and helping affected communities begin the long process of rebuilding.