Lithuania is preparing to contribute to the US-led international relief mission for Venezuela, which was hit by the strongest earthquakes in more than a century earlier this week.
Lithuania has begun preparations for a potential humanitarian medical, search, and rescue mission to Venezuela, according to the government’s press release.“We are currently in contact with the US Embassy in Lithuania to determine specific aid needs and possible joint actions with US rescue teams,” the press release said.If necessary, Lithuania could send up to 40 emergency medical team (EMT) specialists, rescuers, as well as up to 30 tons of humanitarian and medical aid.A shipment of medical and logistical supplies would be sent with the team, including medicines, emergency response supplies, diagnostic and life-support equipment, and solutions that would allow the team to operate independently without burdening the local health care system.According to the press release, Lithuania is ready to make decisions upon receiving an official request for international assistance and a detailed assessment of specific needs.Powerful twin earthquakes, which the United States Geological Survey measured as magnitude 7.2 and 7.5, hit northern Venezuela within a minute of each other on Wednesday.Offers of rescue support, aid and condolences continued to pour in for Venezuela on Friday, two days after the quakes killed at least 235 people and injured more than 1,500, and left dozens of buildings collapsed or heavily damaged.
