U.S. Military Personnel Assist in Venezuelan Airport Control Tower Post-Earthquakes

U.S. military personnel, including airmen and Marines, have been deployed to help staff the air traffic control tower at Simón Bolívar International Airport in Venezuela following two major earthquakes that struck the country on June 24. According to U.S. Southern Command (SOUTHCOM), American troops are working alongside Venezuelan controllers to manage the influx of humanitarian aid being airlifted into the disaster zone.

Photos released by SOUTHCOM show U.S. airmen from the 621st Contingency Response Wing and Marines from Littoral Combat Force-24 operating in the control tower, using tactical radio sets to assist with air traffic management. The presence of these specialized troops underscores the need for additional support in managing the airport's operations during this critical period.

SOUTHCOM spokesperson Hansel Pintos stated that U.S. service members are there at the request of the Venezuelan government through diplomatic channels, emphasizing that Venezuela retains control over its own tower operations. Approximately 2,000 U.S. troops are currently involved in earthquake relief efforts in Venezuela, with around 900 stationed within the country.

This deployment highlights the ongoing humanitarian challenges faced by Venezuela and the international community's response to provide aid during times of crisis.