Following the severe dual earthquakes in Venezuela, the European Commission has pledged its support to the Venezuelan population. In a joint statement released on Thursday, Kaja Kallas, the EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Vice-President of the European Commission, along with EU Commissioners for International Partnerships, Jozef Sikela, and Humanitarian Aid, Hadja Lahbib, expressed profound condolences to the families and loved ones of the victims. They emphasized that during this difficult time, the European Union stands in solidarity with the Venezuelan people and everyone involved in the rescue and assistance efforts.
The Commission members stated that the EU is ready to mobilize aid through the European Union’s disaster protection mechanism if requested. Furthermore, the Copernicus satellite system has been activated in emergency mapping mode to assist with aid operations.
Kallas, Sikela, and Lahbib noted that these earthquakes have struck at a time when millions of Venezuelans are already suffering from significant humanitarian crises. They affirmed that the European Union is in contact with local authorities and prepared to support emergency relief efforts. Simultaneously, the EU is working with partners to determine the urgent humanitarian needs based on the increasingly available information. They also confirmed close contact with humanitarian partners and their readiness to provide any necessary operational support.
Official reports so far confirm 164 deaths and 971 injuries. However, aid organizations estimate that the actual toll could be as high as 100,000.
