A 7.4 magnitude earthquake struck Colombia on 10 August, killing at least 25 people, trapping survivors under rubble, and devastating several areas across the South American nation. Search and rescue operations are ongoing as world leaders swiftly expressed solidarity and pledged support to the affected populations.

The Scale of the Disaster

The powerful tremor also affected neighbouring Ecuador, according to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, who noted at least 25 deaths had been confirmed and that people remained trapped under debris. The quake's western Colombia epicentre caused widespread devastation, with rescue teams working under difficult conditions to reach survivors.

Global Leaders Respond

French President Emmanuel Macron was among the first to respond, writing on X that France extends its 'most sincere thoughts to the Colombian people.' He added: 'I think of the victims, their families, the injured, and all those who have been affected by this disaster. Our solidarity also goes to the rescue teams and all those who are working, with courage, to assist the affected populations. In this ordeal, Colombia can count on our friendship and our support.'

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni said she was 'anxiously following' developments, posting on X: 'In these difficult hours, Italy stands in solidarity with the Colombian people, the affected families, and all those engaged in rescue and assistance operations.'

Zelensky, posting on X, called on the international community to act: 'We call on everyone around the world who can support the affected people and countries right now to step up and help.' He confirmed Ukraine's 'full support and solidarity' with Colombia and Ecuador.

Ecuador Offers Rescue Teams

Ecuadorian President Daniel Noboa Azin, whose country was also impacted by the quake, offered concrete assistance. 'Colombia, Ecuador stands with you. We place our USAR team at your disposal: 47 rescuers, specialised dogs, and equipment with autonomy to operate for 7 days. We are ready to mobilise whenever you require,' he stated on X.

This cross-border solidarity is notable — Ecuador, itself affected, immediately prioritised regional cooperation over its own recovery constraints, underscoring the quake's transnational impact.

United States Monitoring Situation

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said the Trump Administration is 'closely monitoring' the earthquake and stands 'ready to support the people of Colombia and President Abelardo De La Espriella's Administration.' No specific aid package has been announced as yet.

What Comes Next

With search and rescue operations still active, the confirmed death toll is expected to rise. International USAR teams, including Ecuador's 47-member unit, could prove critical in the hours ahead. Colombia has historically relied on regional and international cooperation in disaster response, and this earthquake — one of the strongest to hit the country in recent years — is likely to test that network at scale.