Canada Pledges $5 Million in Emergency Aid Following Deadly Venezuela Earthquakes

Canada has stepped forward with an initial $5 million in humanitarian assistance after two powerful earthquakes devastated Venezuela overnight Wednesday, leaving at least 188 people dead and countless others displaced.

Global Affairs Canada confirmed the funding Thursday evening, directing the money toward emergency relief operations carried out by experienced on-the-ground partners. The aid is set to cover critical needs including food, drinking water, sanitation, healthcare, and logistical support for affected communities.

Foreign Affairs Minister Anita Anand did not mince words when describing the human toll. “The scale of devastation in Venezuela caused by these earthquakes is heartbreaking,” she said. “Families have lost loved ones, communities have been torn apart, and many people are now facing immense uncertainty and hardship.” She reaffirmed that Canada stands firmly with the Venezuelan people as they navigate the crisis.

The $5 million pledged Thursday builds on $4.5 million in aid Canada had already directed toward Venezuela earlier this year. Additionally, the International Red Cross’ Disaster Response Emergency Fund which has received $5 million in Canadian contributions this year will channel $3.5 million to the Venezuelan Red Cross specifically in response to the earthquake disaster. Further details on the allocation of the newly announced funds are expected in the coming days.

Secretary of State for International Development Randeep Sarai described the initial package as a rapid-response measure. “Canada’s initial response is focused on addressing the most urgent needs,” Sarai said, adding that his office would continue exploring additional avenues of support for those affected.

The earthquakes, registering magnitudes of 7.2 and 7.5, rank among the strongest to strike Venezuela in over a century. The tremors were reportedly felt across much of the broader region, amplifying concerns about the full geographic scope of the damage.

Prime Minister Mark Carney had signaled the aid announcement earlier Thursday while speaking to reporters on Parliament Hill, calling it “a fast-developing tragedy.” He expressed personal condolences for the lives lost and said Canada was working closely with international partners to calibrate its response. “We will scale things as appropriate to move forward,” Carney said.

As of Thursday evening, it remained unclear whether any Canadian citizens were among the casualties or the displaced. Global Affairs Canada had not yet responded to media requests for further comment.