A video that surfaced on social media this Sunday, shared by a Venezuelan journalist, seems to depict Interior Minister Diosdado Cabello—a figure long suspected of drug trafficking—engaging in a heated exchange with members of a U.S. rescue team. This confrontation arose after Cabello reportedly hindered their efforts to assist Venezuelans affected by a devastating earthquake the previous week.
Cabello, known for his aggressive demeanor and under U.S. indictment for multiple drug-related charges, stands as one of the top officials in Venezuela’s socialist regime, overseeing its repressive measures.
In his capacity as Interior Minister, Cabello played a significant role in managing the regime’s response to the tragic earthquake that struck last Wednesday, which claimed over 1,400 lives and left many more injured or missing.
The worst destruction took place in the northern state of La Guaira, where reports indicate that around 800 buildings have either partially or completely collapsed.
A report from La Estrella de Panama emphasized that the video circulating online shows Cabello arguing with an American rescue team member. The confrontation highlights Cabello insisting on blocking assistance while the American responder insists there are urgent needs that must be addressed.
Miami’s El Venezolano TV provided an additional view of the incident, capturing U.S. officials expressing dissatisfaction with the ongoing situation.
Journalist Emmanuel Rincon noted that, according to an anonymous source, the dispute lasted several minutes, and at one point, Cabello reportedly “even crashed into a car.”
As of now, officials from Venezuela’s government have not made any public statements regarding the viral footage.
This incident occurs amid mounting criticism directed at the Venezuelan regime, now led by “acting president” Delcy Rodriguez, for their inadequate response to the earthquake. Decades of corruption have rendered Venezuela ill-equipped to handle such natural disasters, hindering effective search and rescue operations.
The New York Times previously published ads targeting Venezuelan officials, indicating that Rodriguez has been accused of exploiting the earthquake for political ends. Reports suggest that government members have reportedly obstructed civilian-led humanitarian efforts, asserting that only their officials are authorized to manage aid distribution.
The Venezuelan regime has indicated—through its state-owned media—that Rodriguez is leading relief efforts. Additionally, the U.S. and other nations, including El Salvador and Mexico, are sending teams and resources to carry out rescue operations in areas like La Guaira.
Rodriguez convened an international search and rescue team during a mission on Saturday night, which drew criticism for diverting rescuers at such a critical juncture. She acknowledged this decision, stating it was important to show gratitude to the international teams.
This mobilization of rescue workers for a public relations event was criticized by many, who feel it undermines the urgent work needed to save lives post-earthquake.
The state of La Guaira was previously known as Vargas before the shift to socialism, a name change that aimed to reframe the historical narrative around Venezuela’s first civilian president.
