US boosts cash aid to Venezuela

The US is pledging more than $300 million (£227 million) to help Venezuela - an increase from its previous commitment of $150 million - the State Department says.

"These funds will provide emergency medical care, food assistance, water and sanitation, shelter, protection, and logistics," the department says in a statement.

The money is being directed through partner organisations including Samaritan's Purse, Catholic Relief Services, the World Food Programme and the Red Cross.

The US has also reopened the Simón Bolívar International Airport in Caracas to help with international relief operations.

A US frigate, the USS Fort Lauderdale, is currently positioned off the coast of La Guaria. Sailors and Marines are using landing and amphibious craft to deliver aid to the most affected coastal areas.

-BBC