The United States pledged $15.5 million in emergency aid to Colombia on Monday, after a powerful earthquake killed more than 100 people, injured dozens more and caused widespread damage across the South American country.
The Trump administration, which backs Colombia's new president, Abelardo de la Espriella, a politician of the so-called hard right who took office just three days earlier, said the aid would allow tents, food and protective measures to be provided to earthquake victims. The money will also go toward assessing the damage caused by the "catastrophic" 7.4 magnitude quake, the State Department said on X.
Death toll and search efforts
The disaster's toll is heavy. At least 111 people have died and 87 have been injured, while damage to buildings and infrastructure is extensive.
Search and rescue operations are continuing, with people still trapped under rubble. Pereira and other cities in western Colombia are among the areas hit hardest. Hospitals, road infrastructure and airports have also reported problems.
National disaster declared
De la Espriella's government declared a state of national disaster in order to speed up the mobilization of resources for dealing with the earthquake's aftermath.
