Putin Sends Condolences, Colombia Struggles with Aftermath of Devastating Earthquake
Colombian President Abelardo de la Espriella has expressed gratitude to Russian President Vladimir Putin for his support and condolences following the devastating earthquake that struck western Colombia on Monday (10/8/2026). The disaster killed at least 181 people and left thousands more injured.
“President Vladimir Putin, I received your message on behalf of Colombia, which is currently standing firm in the face of this tragic event. Your words for those who have lost loved ones and for the Colombian people who are now struggling to recover are received with deep appreciation. Thank you for remembering Colombia in this difficult time,” de la Espriella said via platform X.
De la Espriella said the Colombian people are united in facing the impact of the disaster. The government is now focusing its attention on search and rescue operations while meeting the needs of residents in several severely damaged areas.
A magnitude 7.4 earthquake struck Colombia on Monday. The epicentre was near San Jose del Palmar, Choco Department, in the western part of the country. Strong tremors were felt in several major cities, including Cali, Pereira, Manizales, and Quibdo, as well as in neighbouring countries.
Casualty figures continue to rise as evacuation efforts progress. As of Tuesday (11/8/2026), at least 181 people have been reported dead and 2,595 injured. Rescue teams are still searching for residents reported missing or believed to be trapped under rubble.
Search operations are now racing against time. Rescue teams are working to maximise the critical first 72 hours after the earthquake to find victims who may still be alive beneath collapsed buildings.
Damage has been reported in several cities in western Colombia. Cali, Pereira, Manizales, and Quibdo are among the areas severely affected, with buildings collapsed and public infrastructure disrupted.
In several affected areas, the earthquake disrupted electricity, water, and gas supplies. The damage also affected operations at several airports, causing flight disruptions while the government concentrated resources on emergency response.
The Colombian government has declared a national state of emergency to accelerate resource mobilisation and victim handling. The government has also deployed additional security personnel to affected areas and prepared support for residents who have lost their homes.