The "Sistema Italia" emergency response network is fully mobilized, providing round-the-clock assistance to Venezuela following the powerful earthquake that struck on June 24. Coordinated by the Italian Civil Protection Department in close tandem with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the mission has deployed over one hundred Italian experts to the affected areas. The specialized team includes Urban Search and Rescue (USAR) and Technical Advanced Support Teams (TAST) from the Fire Brigade, personnel from the Foreign Ministry’s Crisis Unit, and medical staff drawn from five Italian regions.
To ensure the rapid deployment of personnel and emergency supplies, the Italian Air Force conducted two dedicated flights on June 26 and 27. The second flight also transported the European Union's Civil Protection coordination team, backed logistically by the Italian TAST team. On the humanitarian front, Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani has cleared an initial emergency aid package to streamline relief efforts. These funds are being funneled directly into critical, high-priority areas: immediate healthcare, clean water distribution, food supplies, and the construction of temporary shelters for displaced families.
The rescue operations are unfolding against a tragic backdrop that directly impacts the large Italian diaspora residing in Venezuela. The provisional toll released by authorities is heavy, underscoring a severe humanitarian crisis. At present, 11 Italian citizens have been confirmed dead, 4 are injured, and 40 remain missing. On a more hopeful note, rescue teams have successfully located and brought 29 Italian nationals to safety.