The European Commission is deploying rescue teams and other emergency assistance to Venezuela after the occurrence of 2 strong earthquakes which caused numerous casualties on 24 June. So far, 8 Member States – Czechia, Spain, Italy, France, Luxembourg, Germany, Portugal and the Netherlands – are sending assistance through the EU civil protection mechanism.
President Ursula von der Leyen said: ‘We stand with the people of Venezuela at this time of great tragedy and catastrophe. I thank all the Member States for their solidarity and speed – sending firefighters, rescue dogs, medical staff and other forms of assistance. Venezuela is not alone.’
More than 520 responders from the eight member states have mobilised so far as part of the deployment. Italy is also sending a medical team, and Luxembourg is mobilising telecommunication, shelter and energy equipment.
To support this response, the EU’s Copernicus satellite service has been activated in emergency mapping mode. The Mapping component of the Copernicus Emergency Management Service (CEMS Mapping) uses satellite imagery and other geospatial data to provide free of charge mapping service in cases of natural hazards and man-made disasters throughout the world.
The EU stands ready to provide further assistance as needs evolve on the ground.
‘Grateful to see more European countries stepping in to help Venezuela. So far the EU has mobilised over 520 rescuers from teams sent by Czech Republic, Spain, Italy, France, Germany, Portugal & the Netherlands, medical staff from Italy & telecoms equipment from Luxembourg,’ Commissioner for Preparedness and Crisis Management, Hadja Lahbib, said.
Background
In October 2001, the Commission established the EU civil protection mechanism to improve the prevention, preparedness, and response to disasters worldwide. Any country hit by a disaster, in Europe and beyond, can request emergency assistance through the mechanism. The Commission plays a key role in coordinating the disaster response and contributing to the transport and/or operational costs of deployments.
Venezuela is one of the main recipients of European humanitarian aid in Latin America. This year, the EU allocated up to €52 million to respond to the humanitarian consequences of the socio-economic crisis in Venezuela. EU humanitarian aid is solely channelled through humanitarian partners such as UN agencies and international NGOs, which work with local partners.
More information:
Map of Venezuela earthquake and response – 25 June 2026
