The European Union “conveys its condolences to the families and loved ones of the victims of the devastating earthquakes that struck Venezuela. At this difficult moment, the European Union expresses its solidarity with the people of Venezuela and with all those engaged in rescue and relief operations”. This is according to a joint statement by EU High Representative Kallas and Commissioners Síkela and Lahbib on the earthquakes in the Latin American country. “These earthquakes come at a time when millions of Venezuelans continue to face significant humanitarian needs. The European Union is in contact with the authorities and stands ready to support emergency response efforts while already working with partners to assess urgent humanitarian needs as more information becomes available”. The EU stands ready to mobilise assistance through the European Union Civil Protection Mechanism, should it “receive a request. In the meantime, to support the response, the Copernicus satellite system has been activated in emergency mapping mode”.