05/07/2026 21:54 - Internacionales
Following the devastating earthquakes that struck Venezuela on June 24, 2026, the Argentine Republic continues to demonstrate its unwavering solidarity. In a new joint effort, the Argentine Armed Forces and civil society have significantly expanded their humanitarian assistance operation, sending more rescuers, specialized teams, and tons of vital supplies to mitigate the effects of the tragedy.
On July 5, 2026, through a C-130 Hercules aircraft of the Argentine Air Force, 16 tons of general cargo were sent, including medical supplies, food, and equipment for personnel. Simultaneously, an Embraer aircraft transported Navy Health and Mental Health specialists, Army veterinary personnel, and a specialized Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear (CBRN) team for prevention and treatment in the affected area.
The deployment also included the USAR ARG 10 Córdoba and ARG 15 Santa Fe brigades—Urban Search and Rescue teams—who joined the ground efforts along with four dog-guide binomials (handler-dog pairs). A third flight was scheduled for the early morning to transport more rescuers. On their return, the aircraft will bring back the USAR 12 and 13 brigades, which successfully completed their operations.
A day earlier, on July 4, 2026, the Maiquetía International Airport (Venezuela's main gateway) received a humanitarian flight organized by the NGO Solidaire, piloted by its founder, Enrique Piñeyro. Aboard a Boeing 787, over 100 Venezuelan doctors residing in Argentina (members of ASOMEVENAR, the Association of Venezuelan Doctors in Argentina) arrived, along with Argentine rescuers from the CEPA (Evacuation and First Aid Corps) and the Grupo Fénix Unit Rescue.
The plane transported 8 tons of supplies donated by the Argentine Red Cross. The arriving professionals include surgeons, pediatricians, intensivists, and traumatologists, who paused their jobs to assist those who lost everything.
The 7.2 and 7.5 magnitude earthquakes on June 24 left a scenario of immense challenge. As of July 5, 2026, official figures confirmed 3,342 dead and 16,740 injured. The UN estimates between 50,000 and 70,000 people missing. There were 942 aftershocks and 190 structures collapsed, with 10,702 people sheltered in 79 camps. Argentina is the country with the second-largest presence of rescuers, contributing to a total of 3,681 brigadistas from 30 countries.
Indira Acosta Cedeño, president of ASOMEVENAR, stated: "Although we are far from our country, we wanted to put our hands at the service of our people... to help continue saving lives and heal so many people who were injured in the tragedy."
The joint work between the State, non-governmental organizations, and healthcare professionals demonstrates that, in the face of devastation, international cooperation and empathy are the most powerful tools to rebuild hope in La Guaira and throughout Venezuela.
Alfredo S. Quiroga
