Confusion hindered Venezuela's response to earthquake that killed over 5,000: Report
A report indicates that Venezuela's response to a major earthquake was severely hampered by bureaucratic confusion, lack of clear disaster plans, and equipment shortages. While the government claimed a swift deployment, sources suggest that civilians led initial rescue efforts due to military delays.
Why it matters
The report highlights critical failures in disaster management and governance in Venezuela, raising questions about state preparedness and institutional efficiency.
Venezuela's military response to the devastating June 24 earthquakes was slowed by delayed deployment orders, poor coordination among senior officials and shortages of essential equipment, according to multiple sources cited by Reuters.The sources, including active and retired military officers, diplomatic officials and people with knowledge of the armed forces, said the lack of a clear disaster-response plan meant troops were not mobilised quickly during the crucial hours after the twin earthquakes struck the country's coast.While acting president Delcy Rodriguez has maintained that 4,000 personnel were deployed immediately. Witnesses and the sources said civilians carried out much of the initial rescue work before international teams, firefighters and a limited number of soldiers arrived.Confusion over the chain of command further delayed operations, with responsibility split between multiple officials.
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