Romania sends humanitarian aid to Venezuela after devastating earthquakes
In a significant act of solidarity, Romania has dispatched humanitarian aid to the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela following the devastating earthquakes that struck on June 24, 2026. This initiative is a testament to Romania's commitment to assist communities affected by natural disasters.
A military aircraft, a C-17 Globemaster III, took off from Otopeni on Thursday, July 2, at approximately 11:30 AM. This aircraft was deployed from the 90th Air Transport Base 'Comandor aviator Gheorghe Bănciulescu' and is part of a multinational initiative known as the Strategic Airlift Capability (SAC), which includes 12 participating states.
The aircraft is carrying essential materials, including medical supplies and equipment, destined for the hard-hit Yaracuy region, which has suffered significant infrastructure damage due to the recent earthquakes. The Venezuelan authorities had requested international assistance, prompting the activation of the European Union's Civil Protection Mechanism (UCPM), which facilitates resource mobilization for affected areas.
Romania's participation in this humanitarian operation was approved by Resolution No. 11 on June 29, 2026, issued by the National Emergency Committee at the suggestion of the Department for Emergency Situations. Representatives from the Ministry of Defense underscore Romania's ongoing commitment to providing humanitarian assistance to communities in need.