Hopes fade in Colombia as more bodies recovered days after powerful quake
Summary
Rescue hopes are fading in Colombia as bodies continue to be recovered days after a 7.4-magnitude earthquake killed about 290 people and left 140 missing. President Abelardo De La Espriella is facing criticism as he oversees relief efforts and seeks U.S. tariff relief for Colombian goods.
Key Points
- More bodies were recovered days after the 7.4-magnitude earthquake that struck western Colombia, with around 290 dead, 140 missing and nearly 4,000 injured.
- Cali and Pereira were hit especially hard, while rescue workers continued searching unstable rubble and thousands of residents slept outdoors in shelters or makeshift camps.
- President Abelardo De La Espriella said he spoke with Donald Trump and asked the United States to temporarily suspend tariffs on Colombian goods to help businesses.
- The disaster is the new president’s first major crisis, and he has faced criticism over the initial response and acceptance of foreign rescue teams.
