Bogota: Countries in the Americas have offered humanitarian assistance and rescue support on Tuesday to Colombia following a magnitude 7.4 earthquake that killed at least 234 people and injured thousands. President Nayib Bukele announced that El Salvador would contribute by sending two cargo planes loaded with 100 tons of humanitarian aid after Colombia requested supplies instead of foreign rescue teams.
According to Anadolu Agency, President Bukele stated on the US social media platform X that Colombia specifically requested aid in the form of supplies to help families affected by the disaster. The first cargo plane was scheduled to depart late Tuesday, with the second following on Wednesday. The aid was prepared based on needs communicated by Colombian authorities.
Mexico is also stepping up with aid, as President Claudia Sheinbaum announced the preparation of the 'Cali' deployment. This package includes over 8,000 food packages, 13,000 basic-needs baskets, and 4 tons of medicine, aimed at assisting the affected regions.
The US Embassy in Bogota reported that the Trump administration had activated a Disaster Assistance Response Team. This team was expected to arrive Tuesday to support emergency operations and coordinate response efforts alongside local authorities.
Ecuadorian President Daniel Noboa offered a search-and-rescue team consisting of 47 rescuers, specialized dogs, and equipment designed to operate independently for a week. "We put our USAR team at your disposal," Noboa stated, referring to the Urban Search and Rescue team, emphasizing their readiness to mobilize.
Argentina has also extended its support, with the Foreign Ministry in direct contact with Colombian authorities. Peruvian President Keiko Fujimori expressed solidarity with Colombia and indicated that Peru was prepared to provide assistance.
Venezuela offered specialized rescue teams and humanitarian aid, while Chilean President Jose Antonio Kast stated that Chile was ready to provide any necessary assistance to Colombia.
Colombian first lady Ana Lucia Pineda announced the establishment of humanitarian collection points in Pereira, a city in urgent need of nonperishable food, medicines, clothing, mattresses, pillows, and bedding.
The earthquake struck western Colombia on Monday, causing widespread damage in cities such as Cali, Pereira, and Quibdo. Rescue operations are actively underway as authorities work to find survivors and assess the full extent of the destruction.