Pope Leo XIV announced this Wednesday (12) the sending of 100 thousand euros in aid to Colombia following the 7.4 magnitude earthquake that hit the South American country last Monday (10). The pontiff also confirmed that the measure will be the first, with the possibility of sending new aid packages, depending on the humanitarian situation in the country.
“Just as happened with Venezuela, also hit by strong earthquakes in June, the pontiff sent initial financial assistance to Colombia, as a concrete sign of his proximity in this time of emergency,” according to a statement from the Holy See.
During the general audience in St. Peter’s Square, Leo XIV expressed his closeness to the Colombians affected by the tremor. The pontiff offered prayers for the dead and their families, thanking the teams involved in rescue and assistance.
Another major aid was announced by the European Union (EU), which will transfer 2 million euros to the most affected Colombian communities. “While search and rescue operations continue, the European Union is supporting Colombia wherever possible,” wrote European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen on the X network.
Furthermore, the EU has mobilized the Copernicus satellite service. The European bloc released the resources after Bogotá activated the European Civil Protection Mechanism, which brings together all 27 member countries.
The search for victims entered its third day, with the death toll exceeding 240. Across the country, around 3,000 people are missing. The strongest earthquake in Colombia’s recent history has already left just over 1,600 injured, shaking 243 structures across the country. In front of the painting, President Abelardo de la Espriella declared, since last Tuesday (11), three days of national mourning. Furthermore, the agent declared a state of public calamity. The measure will serve to intensify aid in the most affected areas.
The city of Pereira has the highest number of deaths (101), followed by Cali. Quibdó has already recorded nine deaths, while Manizales has five fatalities as a result of the earthquake.
Source: www.brasildefato.com.br
