**Europe Sends Search and Rescue Personnel to Venezuela in Response to Massive Quakes**
*Published on 27/06/2026 - 18:53 GMT+2*
In a coordinated humanitarian response, the European Union (EU) has initiated the deployment of search and rescue teams to Venezuela following two significant earthquakes that struck the country on Wednesday. The quakes, measuring 7.2 and 7.5 on the Richter scale, have resulted in catastrophic consequences, with the United Nations reporting at least 920 fatalities and over 50,000 individuals reported missing.
The EU's response is being facilitated through its Civil Protection Mechanism, which aims to provide immediate assistance in the wake of natural disasters. A total of 520 responders from eight EU member states—Czechia, Spain, Italy, France, Luxembourg, Germany, Portugal, and the Netherlands—are mobilizing to assist in the rescue efforts.
Among the first to respond, the Italian Air Force has dispatched its initial aircraft to Venezuela, carrying specialized rescue teams coordinated by the Civil Protection and Crisis Unit. This team includes over one hundred Italian professionals, such as doctors and search experts, who will work in collaboration with local and international authorities to locate survivors and provide medical assistance.
Italian Defence Minister Guido Crosetto has confirmed that a second aircraft is on standby, ready to transport additional specialized personnel and firefighters to the affected regions. Furthermore, Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani has announced an initial financial aid allocation of five million euros, designated for organizations such as the Red Cross, Caritas, and the World Food Programme to support relief efforts.
Spain's Minister of Defence has also highlighted the active role of the Military Emergencies Unit, which is currently deployed at the earthquake's epicenter. The unit is utilizing canine teams and personnel to conduct preliminary reconnaissance and search for survivors amidst the devastation.
In addition, 85 French search and rescue personnel have arrived in Caracas to assist in ongoing operations. The UK's Royal Air Force is preparing aid packages to be sent to Venezuela as part of the broader international response. Turkey has also contributed by sending two military aircraft loaded with search and rescue personnel, medical teams, and humanitarian supplies.
The earthquakes struck the northern Yaracuy region of Venezuela within a minute of each other, causing unprecedented damage to infrastructure and displacing thousands of residents. As rescue operations continue, the EU has activated its Copernicus satellite service, which provides critical mapping data to aid in disaster response efforts.
The situation remains dire as search teams work tirelessly to locate survivors in the rubble. The international community's swift response underscores the urgency of the humanitarian crisis unfolding in Venezuela, as nations come together to provide assistance and support to those affected by this natural disaster.