Dutch rescue team deployed to Venezuela following major earthquake disaster

The Netherlands is sending a search-and-rescue team to Venezuela to assist in the aftermath of a series of earthquakes, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said. The Urban Search and Rescue (USAR) unit will deploy personnel, trained dogs, and specialist equipment after Venezuela formally requested international support.

“The situation is critical,” Minister of Foreign Trade and Development Cooperation Sjoerd Sjoerdsma said in a statement. “Given the scale of the disaster and Venezuela’s position as a neighbouring country of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, the Netherlands has immediately offered support through the deployment of USAR teams.” The minister has set aside up to 2 million euros to fund the operation.

A spokesperson said it is still unclear when the USAR team will leave for Venezuela. “We are currently focused on the logistical arrangements,” she said, adding that it is not yet certain whether departure can take place on Thursday. At least 61 rescue workers are expected to be deployed, which is the standard minimum size of a USAR team.

Venezuelan authorities say the death toll from the earthquakes has risen to at least 164, with at least 971 people injured. Minister Sjoerdsma has expressed his sympathy for those affected, along with Foreign Minister Tom Berendsen, who posted on X that he is “shocked” by the scale of the disaster.

Several European countries have also pledged assistance to Venezuela. France is sending 85 search-and-rescue personnel, Spain is deploying 54 military staff, and Germany is preparing six transport aircraft that could be used if needed. Neighbouring countries in the region have likewise committed to providing support.

The USAR team has been deployed on several major international disaster missions in recent years, including the 2020 Beirut port explosion and the devastating 2023 earthquake in Turkey and Syria. In 2017, the Dutch rescue unit also provided assistance on Sint Maarten in the aftermath of Hurricane Irma.

King Willem-Alexander and Queen Máxima have conveyed their sympathy to the population of Venezuela after the earthquakes. Venezuela is considered a neighbouring country of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in the Caribbean region, with maritime boundaries near Aruba, Curaçao, and the special municipality of Bonaire.

“Our neighbour Venezuela has been struck by devastating earthquakes. Our thoughts are with all those affected and with the families who are now mourning or fearing for their loved ones,” the royal couple said in a statement posted on social media by the Royal House.