The operation, coordinated under the European Civil Protection Mechanism, marks the transition to a new phase of humanitarian intervention and will also serve to bring back to Portugal the national emergency team that had been deployed on the ground.

According to a statement issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the humanitarian cargo aboard the military aircraft comprises hygiene, shelter, comfort, and sanitation supplies.

The shipment also includes 1.5 tons of tools and technical equipment provided by the Portuguese Navy to assist with debris removal, as well as various donations collected by the Red Cross, including two ambulances, each fully equipped to operate as a mobile health unit.

The support contingent is scheduled to arrive in the Venezuelan capital on 8 July.

On the return journey to Portugal, the Air Force planes will transport personnel from the Joint National Operational Force (FOCON).

These individuals had been deployed to Venezuela immediately after the earthquakes to bolster critical search-and-rescue and first-aid missions.

The latest official figures released by local authorities indicate a devastating situation, with at least 3,535 fatalities and 16,740 injuries.

Confirmed deaths include 96 Portuguese citizens and individuals of Portuguese descent, while approximately 60 people remain on lists of the missing or those with whom contact has been lost.