U.S. soldiers have been actively involved in unloading aid from China’s only flight sent to Venezuela. The aid arrived following the devastating earthquakes that struck the nation last month.
Photos from the U.S. government show an Air China aircraft landing at Simón Bolívar Airport on July 6, which was nearly two weeks after the quakes occurred on June 24. Supplies from China were offloaded by U.S. troops, who are leading disaster response and aid distribution efforts.
‘Secretary Rubio promised the Trump administration’s response to the devastating earthquakes in Venezuela would be big, fast and effective. We continue to deliver on that commitment,’ stated State Department spokesman Tommy Pigott.
The U.S. has transported over 1.5 million pounds of aid into Venezuela since the earthquakes hit, according to the State Department.
Repairing Simón Bolívar Airport was crucial, as its runways sustained significant damage. A senior official noted that getting the airport operational allows large aircraft like the C-17 to bring in international relief supplies.
One operational runway saw American flights deliver forklifts to assist in unloading future shipments.
The Global Empowerment Mission (GEM), a Florida-based nonprofit, plans to deliver 100,000 boxes of aid monthly for three to six months. As detailed by GEM’s website, they have shipped nearly 1 million pounds of assistance, encompassing hygiene kits, tents, tarps, and generators.
Michael Capponi, GEM’s founder, highlighted the logistical differences in delivering aid now compared to attempts during Nicolás Maduro’s tenure. With Maduro out of power since a U.S.-led raid captured him, operations have improved. Aid now is transported under U.S. control, bypassing Venezuelan government interference.
In addition, the U.S. pledged over $386 million in financial assistance through partner groups. China’s foreign minister announced a commitment of $14.72 million in aid, which includes tents and generators, received officially by Venezuelan representatives on July 6.
The U.S. had deployed over 300 search and rescue personnel. Their mission completed, these teams have since departed. As of recent reports, the earthquakes resulted in over 4,700 deaths, 16,740 injured, and nearly 18,000 individuals left homeless, with substantial structural damage.