**Mexico Claims Colombia Rejected Earthquake Rescue Team Amid Ongoing Crisis**
*Published on August 13, 2026*
In the wake of a devastating earthquake that struck Colombia on August 7, 2026, Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum has reported that Colombia has declined to allow a team of Mexican rescue experts to assist in the search for survivors. The earthquake, which registered a magnitude of 7.4, has resulted in significant destruction, with at least 273 confirmed fatalities and over 3,800 injuries, according to the latest government figures. Additionally, approximately 377 individuals remain unaccounted for.
President Sheinbaum expressed her frustration during a press conference, stating that she had initially been informed that the Mexican military rescue team was on its way to Colombia. However, she later learned in a security cabinet meeting that this was not the case. She indicated that Colombia had requested a certification for the Mexican team, which is already internationally recognized, but then asked for an additional certification that she deemed unnecessary.
"Colombia requested a certification. They are certified, but now they are asking for another certification," Sheinbaum told reporters, emphasizing the readiness of the Mexican team to deploy at any moment.
Despite the setback regarding the rescue team, Mexico has been proactive in providing other forms of aid, including food and medical supplies. Colombia's Foreign Minister Omar Bula confirmed on Wednesday that the country had accepted 58.5 tonnes of humanitarian aid from Mexico, with a flight carrying additional supplies arriving the same day.
The situation has raised questions regarding the new Colombian government’s approach to international assistance. President Abelardo de la Espriella, who took office shortly before the earthquake, has faced criticism for allegedly blocking rescue teams from countries led by left-leaning governments. However, both Bula and De la Espriella have denied these accusations, asserting that the Colombian government has not excluded any offers based on political ideology.
"We have not excluded any country whatsoever in terms of the offers they have made to us," Bula stated, emphasizing that the government is working with various nations without political considerations.
Colombia's National Unit for Disaster Risk Management has indicated that it is formalizing support from rescue teams from the United States, El Salvador, Ecuador, and Israel. However, the Colombian government has stipulated that foreign teams must be "internationally certified and recognized by their respective countries." They will only accept teams recognized by the International Search and Rescue Advisory Group (INSARAG), which sets international standards for urban search-and-rescue operations.
Sheinbaum has challenged Colombia's requirements, reiterating that the Mexican team is already certified and questioning the need for further documentation. The Mexican military rescue brigade has a history of deploying to 98 countries, showcasing its experience and capability in disaster response.
As the rescue efforts continue, time is of the essence. The critical 72-hour window for finding survivors has passed, and hopes of locating additional individuals trapped under the rubble are dwindling. The international community has responded with offers of assistance, with teams from the Los Angeles County Fire Department and Fairfax County in Virginia already mobilized to support search operations. Additionally, Peru and Brazil have extended their help, and the United Arab Emirates has pledged a $10 million donation to aid in the recovery efforts.
In response to the disaster, President De la Espriella announced plans to declare an economic emergency and establish a reconstruction fund aimed at rebuilding essential infrastructure, including hospitals, schools, and homes. This initiative seeks to channel both Colombian and international assistance effectively to address the widespread devastation caused by the earthquake.
As the situation develops, the focus remains on providing timely aid and support to those affected, while navigating the complexities of international cooperation in disaster response.