Related Documents - CREW: Department of State: Regarding International Assistance Offers After Hurricane Katrina: Venezuela Assistance

ce: CMS'~askForcel.D1rector;-Bassi John R (o"WN~,M~~!
}'s; Brown, Bruce

Subject: Follow-up to questions from senate Staffers
JimlWHA rep on TF-
Ops Director John Bass has two "take-back" questions for WHA from hls Hill briefing. Could you provide background
and/or talking pts by OOB, Thursday morning?
1) What is the status/details of the-offers of assistance from Cuba and Venezuela? Moreover, what has been said publicly
by the USG on their offers? Did the USG officially accept these offers in principal as we had all other offers?
I
2) Has the USG spoken/advised State (Mississippi, Loulslana) governments on ho~ to handle the V~nezuela offer?,
Tks-
Denny
UNCLASSIFIED
lJNCLASsiFIED RELEASED IN PART
O'Herron, Petra C
B6 @-=-.._
. ~~
From: eMS TaskForce1-Director(S/ES-OITF)
Sent: Friday, September 16, 2005 6:20 PM
To: Katrina Working Group
Cc: SES-O_CMS
Subject: FW: WHA SITREP, 1500 Sap 16
---OrIginal Message--
From: O1S TaskForce1N
sent: Friday, 5eptember 16, 2005 3:05 PM
To: TaskForee-1
CC: Creamer, John S; TaskForce-l
Subject: WHA SITREP, 1500 5ep 16
Katrina Task Force

WHA - End of Shift Report
9/16/05 - 1500 hrs
I ['""'""TA-ct';'l"io-n"""""':rlO:"l"ffi:l='c-e-r-......
'-r;WHArV'Fr'r.· B6
September 16, 2005
0700-1500
PRIORITYIHOT
Mexico: Offer of Mental Health Experts: One psychologist, Rosa Rodriguez Zubiate, was accepted. Cable is
outfor clearance: found on unclass side at I:rrFl/DOCS/CABLES/Acceptance cable-immediate-Mexico Sept
15.
-Action: OFDA asked that I hold on the cable. All clearanced received except OFDA and DHHS.
-Action: Sent email to Tony Stint and DBSmith @DHHS 9/166:17 a.m. to ask about clearance status. Follow-
up ODB 9/16.
-Action: OPEN As of 1415 on 16 Sep still awaiting answerfrom OFDAlHHS
Colombia: Civil defense personnel: four personnel will be accepted.

Cable is outfor clearance: found on unclass side atI:rrFl/DOCS/CABLES/Acceptance cable-immediate-
Colombia Sept 15. •
-Action: OFDA (USA/D) asked that I hold on the cable: all clearances have been received, but HHS
info/clearance is in question
-Action: Sent email to Tony Stint 9/15 10:36p.m. to ask about clearance status (in COL file)
-Action: OPEN As of 1415 on 16 Sep still awaiting answerfrom OFDAIHHS_
Pending/Closed Items
Trinidad & Tobago: Pledge to Charity: Embassy continued via email that T&T pledged $2 million on 09/14
at 09: 13. Email sent to WHA/CAR to request cable from Port of Spain when pledge is fulfilled. (04: 15)
-Action: Waiting for response, follow up with desk 9/16 a.m.
-Action: Pending Cable should be comingfrom post today; Tim Swanson has drafted it already.
Brazil: Offer 09/09/05: WHAlBSC continned offer on 09/14 via email at 10: 14; Per matrix, FEMA needs to
v~ .
9/15 - OFDA'rep confirmed USG will not/not accept offer.
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF STATE
REVIEW AUTHORITY: FRANK TUMMINIA . 1
DATE/CASE In: 07 SEP 2006 200503991
UNCLASSIFIED
UNCLASSIFIED
I ~s double-checking with Northcom on offer biNational Guard assistance. B6
-Action: FEMA still needs to vet, ollow u 9/16 .
-Action: Closed. ORTHCOM would not accept assistance. Sent to logger to close
out. Desk and em assy cc e .
Jamaica: Private donations: Question from post on allowing bank to collect donations then deposit with Emb
cashier. E-mail question went to DOIUla Bordley.
-Action: Still waiting/or Donna Bordley (RM). Follow-up w/RM rep 9/16 a.m.
-Action: Closed. Instructed post tohave GOJ make donations via the Red Cross. Sent to logger, desk and post.
Honduras: Confirm GOH assistance was declined earlier. OFDA rep has confinned USG will not accept offers
from gov't or manufacturing assoc.
-Action: Pendi",: Still waitingfor response ifwater or partial acceptance is possible; OFDA asked again for
response
-Action: Sent to Matrix keepers. Regarding the private-to-Gov of Honduras. Change the private Honduras
donation to reflect that the donation is to be given to the GOR for transport to the U.S. via cargo ship per
Mandojana e-mail dated 15Sep,5:17PM. This is important because the President ofHonduras will be .
travelling to New Orleans.
Cuba: Dennison Offut of Op Center tasks a reply to question John Bass took away from a Hill briefing on the
content of Cuban/Venezuelan offers of assistance, our responses to these offers, and about any advice we've
given to Louisiana and Mississippi on Venezuela's offer to these states.
-Action: Denny Offutt of CMS has asked Cuba desk to re-work their submission, due at 1800 hrs 9/15.
-Provided D Offutt Cuba sample
-Action: Pending See Cuba/Ven folder for still in-clearance talking points
Venezuela: Duty officer at Embassy Caracas called with message from DCM: latter had been contacted by .
Minister of Interior saying Venezuela was ready to grant "request" of 16 850 kw generators; it could ship 2 in
one of its own planes, but would need USG air assets to ship the rest. Minister did not say which USG or state
agency had made request. WHA Action officer checked matrix; GOV offer of generators was registered 9/13,
listed as FEMA vetting pending. I informed Embassy duty offer to sit on this request; nothing could be done
until FEMA accepted or declined the Venezuelan offer. Duty officer thought GOV was playing with us by
making multiple offers and then pressing for immediate shipment. (23 :05)
-Action: Provided D Offutt w/Venezuela update (generators- spoke to DoS-South to confirm) andforwarded
Ven. Response (Cong. Inquiry}
-Action: Pendillg See CubalVen folder for still in-clearance talking points
Guyana- Cable accepting Guyana's offer of cash is drafted, still waiting for post to send cable with
governments offer modifications (9/15 11:00 p.m.) .
Action: Closed. Post cable indicated that GOG will send donations to the American Red Cross and appropriate
NGO's. Cable sent via e-mailfor clearance. Cable indicates thanks for the donation.
Panama: 9/16 a.m. shift needs to contact Red Cross to follow up on in-kind donations from a Panama radio
station (see message from post in Panama folder); sent message to Panama on status of inquiry. .
-Action: Closed. Instructed post to put this private agency in touch with America's Second Harvest at
(800)-771-2303. American Red Cross cannot accept in-king donations. Sent to logger
Panama: 9/15, Panamanian Embassy Officer Pillar Ortega (202.483.1407) asked for assistance in locating 37
missing Panamanians across the three affected states.
-Action: CA has been informed and-has the lead on this issue. Check in with CA 9/16 a.m. to ascertain
progress.
2
lTNCLASSIFIED
UNCLASSIFIED
-Action:Closed CA now has this for action. Appears to be some confusion within 'the Panamanian embassy. CA
rep Kim Christman will follow up. Sent to logger and closed.
Costa Rica: Pending 9/16 p.m. shift sent note to TF 3 to update matrix regarding sugar offer. EB indicates
offer will not be accepted. No further action at this time. Old e-mail in folder.
lJNCLASSIFIED
UNCLASSIFIED
Oliva, Amber M
From: Gisvold, Lisa C RELEASED IN PART

sent. Tuesday, January 1(}, 20069:12 AM
To: Morrow, Michael K B6
SUbJect: FWT: HURRICANE KATRiNA, RECOGNIZING FOREIGN ASSISTANCE
More guidance to field.

-----original Message-----
From: PATH Telegram Delivery
Sent: Tuesday, September 06, 2005 8:09 PM
To: Aguilar, Karen; Almodovar, Cindy Trodden; Almodovar, Cindy Trodden; Amadeo, Stefanie;
Ansah-Twum, Ellen Y; Ball, Jacqueline A; Bame, David J; Barnes, Susan D; Barnett, Cheryl
E; Beeton, Amy E; Bell, Susan J (S/CT); Bibbins Sedaca, Nicole M; Block, Marc David;
Bradley, Tobin J; Bradley, Tobin J; Brewer, Maria E; Bullivant, N. Lynn; Burk, Susan F:
Busse, Mark D; Chambers, Patricia J; Chandler, Karen R; Cheatwood, Jon P; Cimino, Sandra;
CMS - Telegrams; Coffey, Marguerite R; Crock, Jonathan M; Curley, Susan A; Curley, Susan
A; Dees, Peter M; Diascro, Matthew N; Dilworth, Alison E; Duffy, William J; Duffy, William
J; Echeverria, Cynthia C; Edmunds, Christine J; Ellrich, Douglas K; Foster, Timberlake;
Franz, David w; Friedrich, Mary K; Fuhrer, Mary Jo: Garcia, Vera; Gisvold, Lisa C;
Glassman, Deborah W; Gordon, Angela J; Harris, Michelle F; Hartley, Brent R; Hart, Shirley
M; Hawthorne, Margaret D; Hayden, Caitlin M; Hayes, Patrick R; Hayes, Patrick R; Heffern,
John A: Helton-Floyd, Kathleen L: Holinka, Ann M; Holley, Vanessa A; Hughes, Inez I;
Jablonsky, Michele; Jacobs, Morris E; Jakub, Michael A; Kushner, Todd A; Miller, Michael
F;. Mi ller, Ronald W; Nakian, EI i zabe th--hi_N-e31ma.:ml '\li.x:gini.a.,""R;-N.eumann..-Y.irginia-R;-------
~~~~.Norman·,~arc~i~No¥es,,~icholas,;..=Pal:mer~'\lioz;gjmi~=E,;=P-A'rH=DS';~A~~1~--A'l!H~;=P-A'1'H=-<PA';;:;
~~~~
PATH PAPLIGA; PATH SCT Operations; PATH SWClj Patterson, Rex M; Perry, Margaret A; P-EUR
Duty; Phelps, Sandy L; Pierce, Patrice C; r I
Ponce, Antoinette M; Porter,
Lori B; Prosper, Pierre R; P-WHA Duty; Raphael, LO~s; Realuyo, Celina B; Reynolds, Rodney
B6
M; ROY, Carlene A; Rye, Erik D; Sagor, Andrew.JE; Salazar, Edward J; Sandage, John B; .
schlegel, Sally~; Service; Robert E: Shaw,Andrew; Shore, Rhonda Hi Slaven, William Ai
smith, Robin A; Thomas, Harry K; Trinidad, Wanda A; Truhn, J. Patrick; Truhn, J. Patrick;
Turekian, Vaughan Ci Van de Velde, James R; Volker. Karen E; Weigold, Eva A; Welch,
Gretchen G; West, Robert R; Whiton, Christian Pi Wisniewski, Mark E: Wojtasiewicz, Renata
Ai Zawitkowski, Emilia J; Zawitkowski, Andre J
Subject: HURRICANE KATRINA, RECOGNIZING FOREIGN ASSISTANCE
SUBJECT: HURRICANE KATRINA, ~ECOGNIZING FOREIGN ASSISTANCE
REF: STATE 163279
1. As foreign governments, individuals and organizations continue to provide assistance

in the wake of Hurricane Katrina, we must ensure that our appreciation for their
generosity and support continues to be expressed clearly and publicly. As delivery of
assistance from specific countries is confirmed, embassies are to make public statements
.to the government, in the media and in other appropriate venu~s thanking donors for their
help at this critical time. Statements should be coordinated with host governments to
avoid possible misunderstandings or preemption of donor country announcement.
2. Posts should keep the Task Force advised of actions taken 1n response to this cable.
For Post's information only, please see the attached list (para. 5) of foreign government
offers that have been accepted as of this date.
3. The Hurricane Katrina Task Force will advise posts of formal acceptance of specific
categories of assistance from individual countries as soon as approval is generated. The
Secretary's statement from Friday (Ref 163279), tailored to particular circumstances, may
serve as the basis for embassy statements.
4. In anticipation of world leader interest in the recovery efforts going on in the wake
of Hurricane Katrina, the State Department will arrange special VIP briefings during the
UN General Assembly eyents of next week. These briefings will provide information on
recovery progress and donor assistance .. Travel in and around the disaster area is both
difficult and hazardous. These briefings will allow world leaders who plan to attend UNGA
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF STATE 1
IttVIEW AUTHORITY: FRANK TUMMINIA
DATE/CASE ID: 23 JAN 2007 200503991
UNCLASSIFIED
UNCLASSIFIED
to stay informed as to the recovery efforts in the disaster region.
5. SUMMARY OF FOREIGN OFFERS ACCEPTED OR PLAN TO ACCEPT
COUNTRY FOREIGN OFFERS
Afghanistan
Armenia
Australia
Azerbaijan
Bahamas
Bahrain
Bangladesh
Belgium
Canada
China
Djibouti
Finland
France
Gabon
Georgia
Germany
Greece
ICRC
India
Israel
-Tetao]y-
Japan
Kuwait
Maldives
Mexico
NATO
Norway
Organization of
American States $25,000 cash
Qatar $100 million cash
Republic of Korea $30 million cash and in-kind donations
Saudi Arabia $5 million from Aramco; $250,000 cash
Singapore 3 helos
Sri Lanka $25,000 cash
Taiwan $2 million cash, medical supplies
Thailand Large amounts of food
UAE $~OO million cash
UK MREs
UN OCHA UN Disaster Assessment and Coordination
Team and Logistics support
UN WHO Public health officers and logisticians
Venezuela up to $1 million to Red Cross
6. Minimize considered.
RICE
UNCLASSIFIED
Additional Addresees:
AMEMBASSY DUSHANBE
AMEMBASSY KHARTOUM
USLO TRIPOLI
AMEMBASSY BELIZE
AMEMBASSY GEORGETOWN
2
UNCLASSIFIED
Message \ Page 1 of3
UNCLASSIFIED
--~~~~
-~--~------()'Herron,-Petra-e
From: Bass, John R (OPS)(S/ES-O)

Sent: Tuesday, September 27,2005 10:33 AM
To: McCarthy, Deborah A
Cc: Harris, Michelle F; SES-o_eMS; Katrina Working Group
SUbject: FW: Hurricane relief - Latin American countries
(
I think this probably started with you, but just to be certain, would appreciate KWG's help to verify the list of WHA
countries that offered assistance. thanks, JB
-----Origlnal Message----
From: Simon, John [mailto:John_Simon@nsc.eop.gov]
sent: Tuesday, September 27, 2005 10:19 AM
To: Bass, John R (OPS)
Cc: SES-o_CMS
Subject: FW: Hurricane relief - latin American countries
Just double checking the list below on Hispanic countries that have offered Hurricane assistance.
From: Cronin, Susan P.

sent:Monday, September 26,20052:11 PM "
To:"Spiller, Katherine S.; DL-NSC-Westem Hemisphere Affairs; Simon, John; Meline, Jed
Cc: DL-NSC-Executive Secretary; Newton, Julia K.
Subject: RE: Hurricane relief - Latin American countries
Didn't !.Jruguay offer powdered milk and water purification trucks or something. Thought I saw that on the news.
_SUe_CrOnin . " . ~ ~ - -
WesternHemisphereNSC
202-456-9138
---Original Message----
From: Spiller, Katherine S.
Sent: Monday, September 26,200512:49 PM
To: DL-NSC-Westem Hemisphere Affairs; Simon, John; Meline, Jed
ce: DL-NSC-Executive Secretary; Newton, Julia K.
Subject: FW: Hurricane relief - Latin American countries
@WHA
OPL would like our recommendation on Ambassadors to invite for the Hispanic Heritage Month event.
They have a list of Latin American countries that offered relief assistance following the hurricanes. Daniel's
email says 4-5 Ambassadors but I have warned him we might feel that more Ambassadors should be
invited. That being said, please look at the list below and let me know what you think is most appropriate.
Also note that Daniel mentions factoring in support for Iraq into our decision, I leave that up to you if you
think that is a relevant deciding factor.
John/Jed
Please verify thatthe list of countries from State below is correct when compared to your list of foreign aid
contributions. "
Thank you-
Katherine
REVIEW AUTHORITY: FRANK TUMMINIA
DA,ft'~,1~dD: 08 SEP 2006 200503991 UNCLASSIFIED
Mesl>age Page 2 of3
UNCLASSIFIED
----Original Message--
From: Garza, Daniel
sent: Monday, September 26, 2005 12:38 PM
To: Spiller, Katherine S.
Subject: Hurricane relief - Latin American countries
Katherine: Below is a list of latin American countries who have stepped up with relief assistance according
to State Dept. Any of these countries overlap with troops in Iraq maybe?
Please recommend 4-5 ambassadors from the listed countries to invite for the Hispanic Heritage event.
imagine Mexico should have one of those slots given their significant commitment.
Please advise ASAP.
Daniel
----Original Message----
---------..FnroHmft':-Rojas, Fernando 0 Emailto:Roj8sFO@st8te.gov}-·~--------------------
sent: Monday, september 26,·2005 11:05 AM
To: Garza, Daniel
Subject: RE: Anything on the Hurricane relief latin American countries?
Daniel:
The latin American countries that offered assistance for Hurricane Katrina are as follows -
Argentina
Bolivia
Brazil
~ . ----------Chile--.--._-----------_.__._-..__.__.. _----------.,,-.-.---.---
Colombia
Costa Rica
Dominican Republic
Honduras
Mexico
Panama
Paraguay
Peru
Ecuador
EI Salvador
Guatemala
Nicaragua
Venezuela
Just FYI - Other countries in the Western Hemisphere that also offered (though not of Hispanic heritage):
The Bahamas. Barbados, Canada, Dominica, Guyana, Jamaica, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines,
Trinidad and Tobago.
Also please note - the Organization of Americans States also offered $25,000 and opened a fund for
member countries to donate to.
Finally - While Cuba has made an offer: we should not include it in any White House acknowledgement.
On acknowledgement of Venezuela, I trust NSC will decide.
I've been promised the latest on which offers we've accepted, but I don't want to hold you up. I will send it
as soon as I get my hands on it.
UNCLASSIFIED
7/19/2006
Message Page 3 of3
. UNCLASSIFIED
Best regards.
Fernando
Fernando D. Rojas
Senior Advisor to Ambassador John F. Maisto
U.S. Permanent Mission to the Organization of American States (OAS)
Bureau of Western Hemisphere Affairs
U.s. Department of State
Washington, D.C. 20520
(202) 647-9482
From: Garza, Daniel [mailtD:DanieLGarza@who.eop.gov]

~nt: Friday, september 23,20052:14 PM
To: Rojas, Fernando D
SUbject: Anything on the Hurricane relief latin American countries?
~~~~ -~-------~-----------------~------~----~----~-~
7/1912006
UNCLASSIFIED
SENSITIVE BUT UNCLASSIFIED
,
Page 1 of2
UNCLASSIFIED
Bantes, JuJianna W
From: Dean, Paul

RELEASED IN FULL
Sent: Wednesday, August 31, 20055:27 PM
To: Gutherie, Peter A; Borek, Jamison S .
SUbject: FW: eMS Spot Report: Hurricane Katrina (SBU)
see item one.
-----Original Message-----
From: sanders, Robert P
sent: Wednesday, August 31,2005 5:25PM
To: SES-O_CIIIIS-WReport
Subject: CMS Spot Report: Hurricane Katrina (SBU)
SE1\'SHIVE l3Ul:'y'~(_LASSlFI~D
eMS SPOT REPORT: HURRICANE KATRINA

August 31, 200S
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF STATE .1700 EDT
DATE/CASE ID: 10 AUG 2006 200503991
OFFERS OF FOREIGN ASSISTANCE
... Several foreign governments and private entities have offered assistance to the reliefeffort. The
Japanese government offered tents, blankets, and generators, Russia offered aircraft and boats, and
Germany offered high speed pumps. Venezuela and Honduras have also offered assistance. Private
entities in Germany offered communications equipment. A French fire brigade and two French
NGOs have offered assistance as well. According to the Federal Emergency Management Agency
(FEMA), there are currently no urunet needs and they are not seeking foreign assistance at this time.
CMS continues to record foreign assistance offers and forward them to FEMA. (eMS - FEMA
email. CMS te/cons)
INQUIRIES FROM FOREIGN MISSIONS

... State has fielded inquiries from 32 foreign missions regarding the status of their nationals in the
disaster-affected areas: We are working with FEMA and the American Red Cross (ARC) to address
these inquiries, but those organizations cannot predict when sufficient information will be available
to provide answers. State officials, joined by DHS, FEMA and ARC, briefed 113 members of the
diplomatic corps today to share information and field questions.· (eMS telcons}
* . Spanish Member ofParliament Lourdes Munoz and her family have taken refuge at the New
Orleans Convention Center and, according to. the Spanish Embassy, are without food, water, or
money. FEMA and ARC are aware. (CMS - Embassy ofSpain te/con)
... The Russian Embassy reports high-level interest in the fate of thirty Russians stranded in a hotel in
New Orleans. State has reported their location to U.S. Coast Guard representatives handling rescue
operations. .
... Two Jordanians, the son of a senator and the son of a former Prime Minister, have been relocated to -
the Superdome after having been trapped in ahotel in New Orleans without feed or water. (CMS -
Embassy ofJordan telcon)
UNCLASSIFIED
41512006
.,
UNCLASSIFIED'
Oliva, Amber M 173~55
From: PATH Telegram Delivery ..
RELEASED IN PART
Sent: Thursday, September 15, 20051:51 PM Rh
To: Almodovar, Cindy Trodden; Ansah-Twum, Ellen Y; sal(, Jacqueline A; Barnett, Cheryl E;
Bibbins Sedaca, Nicole M; Boggs, Gladys D; Brady, Cynthia A; Busse, Mark D; Casey,
Thomas H; Chagnon, Natalie L; CMS - Telegrams; Crock, Jonathan M; Dilworth, Alison E;
Fotovat, Katrina I; Friedrich, Mary K; Gisvold, Lisa C; Hambrick, Barbara K; Hardy, Elsie;
Higgins, Justin; Hironimus, Janelle S; Homer, Jamie L; Horton, Brenda D; Jacobs, Morris E;
Miller, Ronald W; Neumann, Virginia R; Neumann, Virginia R; PATH DS; PATH PA; PATH
PAPlIGA; PATH SWCI; Pellegrini, Keith A;I I Prosper, Pierre R; Reynolds, B6
Rodney M; Rogers-Harper, Amanda D; Ross, Jennifer A; Ruppe, Adele E; Sagor, Andrew E;
SES-CR Sec and Pres Corresp; Sloan, linda A; Smith, Robin A; Sofen, Melinda J; Thomas,
Harry K; Thompson, Nicole A; Turekian, VaughanC; Vasquez, Edgar J; Volker, Karen E;
Welch, Gretchen G; Whiton, Christian P; Wildermuth, Mark J; Wojtasiewicz, Renata A;
Zawitkowski, Emilia J .
Subject: GOV FOLLOW-UP ON GENERATORS OFFERED FOR KATRINA RELIEF EFFORTS
SUBJECT: GOV FOLLOW-UP ON GENERATORS OFFERED FOR KATRINA RELIEF EFFORTS
REF: SECSTATE 169494
1. (U) Request for Guidance" see paragraph six.
2. (U) The Venezuelan government (GOV) is following up on its offer to provide power
generators for Katrina relief efforts~ In a letter dated August 30th from Venezuelan
Ambassador to the United States Bernardo Alvarez to LouisanaGovernor Kathleen Blanco, the
GOV offered the State of Louisiana various relief materials, including 18 power generation
plants with 850 KW each. The letter indicated that CITGO CEO Felix Rodgriguez would be
contacting the the State of Louisiana to get in touch directly with local authorit,ies.
Embassy has also been in contact wi thFEMA' s operations in Louisana indicating .chat . the'
GOV had made:this offer, and we understand that WHA/AND followed up directly with: the "
appropriate Government ("'oF _T........ ~~_~~ __ .....~~~--------_.. ~ -_.
3. (U) At 2230 on 14 ; Dr Jessi Chacon contacted the

Charge stating that the
16 generators were read ccording to~Chacon, the
Venezuelan Air Force I s I hly carry two of the 2m by 2m
by 6m generators at a t i~=~~al support in the form of
an aircraft capable of
4'. (SBU) Caracas Embas ified the State Cps Center at

2300 on September 14, a: , to the Hurricane Katrina task
force to brief them on rina WO, Mike Bosshart, told
the DO that the generatl tical difficulties in moving
the generators from Ven robable that the Venezuelan
offer will be declined.1 i
Bosshart emphasized tha t for the generators, but said
the matter was still ud, I hre of the ongoing relief
I . ,
efforts. ,
5. (U) Embassy underst authorities will assesses the

need for the generators' ransporting that equip~ent by
USAF aircraft.
6. (U) Action requested: that Department provide additional guidance to the Embassy on a
response to the GOV's most recent offer as well as on how to respond to the request for
USAF lift.
Whitaker
UNCLASSIFIED
Additional Addresees:
UNITED STATES DEPARTIVIENT OF STATE 1
REVIEW AUTHORITY: FRANK TUIVIIVIINIA
DATE/CASE ID: 23 JAN 2007 200503991
UNCLASSIFIED
UNCLASSIFIED
INFO AMEMBASSY BOGOTA
AMEMBASSY BRASILIA
AMEMBASSY BRUSSELS
AMEMBASSY LA PAZ
AMEMBASSY LIMA
AMEMBASSY MADRID
AMEMBASSY QUITO
AMEMBASSY THE HAGUE
NSC WASHDC
HQ USSOUTHCOM MIAMI FL
-PAGE 01 CARACA 02806 151750Z
@INFO: CMS(OO) DSCC(OO) G(OO) IRM(OO) PA(OO)

PRS(OO) R(OO) R(OO) SSC(OO)
ss (OO) . SWCI (00) WO (00)
==================== 151750Z SEP 05 STePS (TOTAL COPIES:OOO)
ACTION SS-OO
INFO LOG-OO NP-OO AID-DO CIAB-OO CPR-OO INL-OO DODE-OO·

DOTE-OO WHA-OO DS-OO EAP-OO EB-OO EUR-OO FAAE-OO
UTED-OO FEMA-01 VC-OO H-OO TEDE-OO INR-OO VCE-OO
AC-OO NSAE-OO EPAU-OO PA-OO PER-DO PRS-OO ACE-OO
IRM-OO SSC-OO SSO-OO FMP-OO R-OO EPAE-OO IIP-OO
SCRS-OO DSCC-OO PRM-OO G-OO NFAT-OO SAS-OO SWCI-OO
/OOlW
------------------39C84F 151750Z /38
o 151750Z SEP 05
FM AMEMBASSY CARACAS
TO SECSTATE WASHDC IMMEDIATE 1445
INFO AMEMBASSY BOGOTA " .
AMEMBASSY BRASILIA
AMEMBASSY BRUSSELS
AMEMBASSY LA PAZ
AMEMBASSY LIMA
AMEMBASSY MADRID
AMEMBASSY QUITO
AMEMBASSY THE HAGUE
NSC WASHDC
HQ USSOUTHCOM MIAMI FL
UNCLAS CARACAS 002806
SENSITIVE
NSC FOR CBARTON

HQSOUTHCOM ALSO FOR POLAD
STATE FOR TFUSOI HURRICANE KATRINA.TASK FORCE
E.O. 12958: N/A

TAGS: OPDC, PREL, VB
UNCLASSIFIED·
UNCLASSIFIED INITIALS
APPR: D 0
DRAFT: D 0
CLR: MT
RELEASED IN FULL
UNCLASSIFIED
TFUS01:C ENGLISH
06/28/06 (202) 647-9387
TFUS01:C ENGLISH
s/Es-o:AK SMITH
S, D, P, E, T, M, G, R, TFUS01, S/ES-0-2, S/ES-3,

S/ES-IRM, S/ES-O/CMS, S/ES-EX, EUR-5
IMMEDIATE ALDAC, SPECIAL EMBASSY PROGRAM IMMEDIATE, SECDEF
WASHDCIMMEDIATE+
SENSITIVE, INFORM CONSULS
E.O. -12958: N/A
TAGS: PREL, PINS, AEMR, MARR, CASC, US,. KHLS

SUBJECT: TFUS01 SITUATION REPORT. NO. 020 AS OF 0500 EDT
MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 12, 2005
Sensitive But Unclassified Telegram TBxt_C English,

Coordinator.
FOREIGN ASSISTANCE
(U) A total of 118 countries and 12 international

organizations have generously offered assistance to the
Hurricane Katrina relief effort. The following new offer
of assistance has been made:
Peru upped its offer of bandages from 1,600 to 2,760.
(Peru 3925) .
ACCEPTANCES OF OFFERS OF ASSISTANCE
(U) The United States has accepted offers of assistance

from 83 countries and 2 international organizations.
(Task Force)
CONSULAR ISSUES
UNCLASSIFIED

DATE/CASE TO: 04 OCT 2006 200503991 UNCLASSIFIED
UNCLASSIFIED
UNCLASSIFIED 2
(U) Germany's Ambassador to the United States wolfgang

Ischinger will travel to New Orleans September 12 to meet
with German technical teams working at water pumping
stations. (EUR)
(SBU) The Consuls General of Costa Rica, the Dominican

Republic, Ecuador, Honduras, Japan, Panama, Spain, and
Venezuela, escorted by DS, will visit New Orleans .
September 15 to recover key papers from their facilities.
The Japanese Consul General and three staff will visit
Japan's facilities unescorted September 13. (DS)
KEY PENDING OFFERS
(SBU) Pakistan has offered more than 50 tons of tents,

tarps, blankets, pillows, etc. for which FEMA has no
identified need. However, the Pakistani government has
already purchased the goods. The Task Force is querying
FEMA about possible partial acceptance of the Pakistani
offer. (Task Force)
UPDATE ON REVIEW PROCESS
(U) FEMA, USAID/OFDA and TF Coordinator will hold a

conference call September 12 to update status of
acceptance of in-kind offers. The last review waS
September 9. So far, 23 offers have b~en designated for
immediate acceptance with 17 processed; 21 offers are
under review; and 25 could not be matched with needs and
are not likely to'be accepted. (Task Force)
MINIMIZE CONSIDERED.
yy
SECDEF WASHINGTON DC.IMMEDIATE

RUEKJCS/SECDEF WASHINGTON DC//USD:SOLIC// IMMEDIATE
RHBVAKS/COMFIFTHFLT IMMEDIATE
RHBVQJQ/COMSIXTHFLT IMMEDIATE
UNCLASSIFIED
UNCLASSIFIED
UNCLASSIFIED
UNCLASSIFIED 3
RHMFISS/NGA HQ BETHESDA MD IMMEDIATE

RHMFISS/COMFAIRMED NAPLES IT IMMEDIATE
RHMFISS/COMUSNAVEUR DET LONDON UK IMMEDIATE
RHMFISS/COMSOCEUR VAIHINGEN GE IMMEDIATE
RHHJJAA/JICPAC HONOLULU HI IMMEDIATE·
RHMFISS/CDR USPACOM HONOLULU HI IMMEDIATE
RHMFISS/HQ USSOCOM MACDILL AFB FL IMMEDIATE
RHMFISS/CDR USCENTCOM MACDILL AFB FL IMMEDIATE
CDR USSOUTHCOM MIAMI FL IMMEDIATE
RHMFIUU/CDR USJFCOM NORFOLK VA IMMEDIATE
RHMFISS/CDR USEUCOM VAIHINGEN GE IMMEDIATE
RUEADWD/DA WASHINGTON DC//DAPE-PRR-C/DAPE:PRO// IMMEDIATE
RUEADWD/DA WASHINGTON DC//DAPE:MO// IMMEDIATE
RUEADWD/DA WASHDC//DAMO-AOC-CAT/PCC// IMMEDIATE
RHMFIUU/CDR USTRANSCOM TCCC-A SCOTT AFB IL IMMEDIATE
RHMFISS/CDR USSTRATCOM OFFUTT AFBNE IMMEDIATE
DIA WASHINGTON DC IMMEDIATE
RHEFDIA/DIA WASHINGTON DC//TWC// IMMEDIATE
JOINT STAFF WASHINGTON DC IMMEDIATE
RHMFISS/JOINT STAFF WASHDC//J-l!J-3:JOD// IMMEDIATE
RUMlAAA/HQ USSOVTHCOM J2 MIAMI FL IMMEDIATE
RHMFISS/HQ USSOUTHCOM J3 MIAMI FL IMMEDIATE .
WHITE HOUSE WASHINGTON DC IMMEDIATE
NSC WASHINGTON DC IMMEDIATE
CIA WASHINGTON DC IMMEDIATE
y
UNCLASSIFIED
·UNCLASSIFIED
... "
Oliva, Amber M
From:. CMS TaskForce1N
Sent: Thursday, September 15, 20052:23 PM
To; Cue. Lourdes C
Cc: TaskForce-1
Subject: RE: URGENT: Follow-up to questions from Senate Staffers on CubaNenezuelan offers of
Assistance
thanks
> -----Original Message-----
>From: Cue, Lourdes C
>Sent: Thursday, September 15, 2005 2:18 PM
>To: CMS TaskForce1Ni Benson, James H
>Cc: TaskForce-Ii TaskForce-Ii WHA-Venezuela Desk Officers
>Subject: RE: URGENT: Follow-up to questions from Senate Staffers on Cuba/Venezuelan
offers of Assistance
>
>He said he sent them. « File: Congressional Query (2) .doc »
>
>But here it is.
>
>-----------,~----=-----------
>From: CMS TaskForcelN
>Sent: Thursday, September 15, 2005 1:22 PM
>To: Friedman, Bruce Wi Benson, James Hi Cue, Lourdes C
>Cc: TaskForce-li TaskForce-1
>Subject: RE: URGENT: Follow-up to questions from Senate Staffers on Cuba/Venezuelan
offers of Assistance
>
>Bruce : ': ". .' . i '- .,
>I'd like,to:.,follqw,up':onthe status pf the Venezuela questions for John'Bass.
>
>Thanks,
>Alison
>
> ---~-Original Message-----
> From: Friedman, Bruce W
> Sent: Thursday, September 15, 2005 10:28 AM
> To: CMS TaskForcelNi Benson, James Hi Cue, Lourdes C
> Cc: TaskForce-1i TaskForce-l I
> Subj-ect: RE: URGENT: Follow-up to questions from Senate Staffers on
Cuba/Venezuelan offers of Assistance
>
> Right. We got the doc. Trying to run down one piece of info that PDAS
Shapiro wanted added. Should be able to do it within the half-hour. Do you absolutely
need it now?
>
>
> From: CMS TaskForcelN
> To: Friedman, Bruce W; Benson, James H; Cue, Lourdes C
> Cc: TaskForce-Ii TaskForce-l
> Subject: RE: URGENT: Follow-up to questions from Senate Staffers on
>
> Good Morning:
> I'd like to follow-up on the status of the Venezuela "take back" questions for Ops
Center Dir. John Bass.
>
> Thanks,
> Alison Shorter-Lawrence
> WHA Rep
> TFI
DATE/CASE 10: 09 NOV 2006 200503991 UNCLASSIFIED
>
lTNCLASSIFIED
> To: CMS TaskForce1N; Benson, James Hi Cue; Lourdes C
> Cc: TaskForce-1
>
> Yes.
>
>
> From: CMS TaskForce1N
> Sent: Wednesday, September 14, 2005 8:00 PM
> To: Friedman, Bruce Wi Benson, James Hi Cue, Lourdes C
> Cc: TaskForce'-l
CUba/Venezuelan offers of Assistance
>
> Bruce, is that feasible for you?
> To: CMS TaskForce1Ni Benson, James Hi Cue, Lourdes C
> Cc: TaskForce-1
> Subject: RE: URGENT: Follow-up to questions/from Senate Staffers on
:>
> Talked to John this evening. He said to send the answers to him
by 10 am tomorrow.
>
>
> Sent: Wednesday, September c1'4 , 20057:30Pt1:'
',' > To: Benson, James H }" '.,n:n.'
> Cc: Friedman, Bruce Wi TaskForce-1
>
> Jim, the tasking from Dennie Offut was for something to be ready by. oob
tomorrow. I have no idea why it is so urgent, especially since it was a take-away
question, but that's what I was told.
> From: Benson, James H
> To: CMS TaskForce1N
> Subject: RE: URGENT: Follow-up to questions from Senate
Staffers on Cuba/Venezuelan offers of Assistance
>
> Mike is it necessary for the VEN desk to do guidance no"w? I got
the impression The Hill wanted to know what we had done, not mandate that we do something
now.
>
> Jim Benson
> Deputy Director
> WHA/PPC
> Voice: (202) 647-9964 Fax: (202) 736-7450
>
>
>
> To: Benson, James H
> cc . TaskForce-l
> Subject: FW: URGENT: Follow-up to questions from Senate
>
2
UNCLASSIFIED
> Jim, turns ou~~~~Sg~!~l~eI{hatis actually cleared is much
more sparse than what you forwarded. I've got. the Venezuela desk people actually grinding
out the q & a.
>
> -----Original Message--~--
> From: Regan, John A
> To: CMS TaskForce1N
> Cc: TaskForce-1
> Subject: ·RE: URGENT: Follow-up to questions. from Senate
>
> The press guidance sent out was NOT/NOT cleared for use. It was
sent around to ask for views, and we received substantial push-back from the 7th floor
that has yet to be resolved.
>
> Attached to this message is the only cleared guidance that we have
used regarding Cuba. Thanks.
>
> « File: 9-8 press taken question Katrina.doc » Error! Not a
valid embedded object.
>
>
> To: Regan, John A
> Cc: TaskForce-1
> Subject: FW: URGENT: Follow-up to questions from Senate Staffers
on
>Cuba/Venezuelan offers of Assistance
>
>
> ,F'roffi.:" .';". CMS ,TaskForce1N (;l ~> :,1
> '\',.'Sent: Weclnesday, September 14, 200S 6:09 PM ....,. ~;' ,~/':-
> To: Zuniga-Brown, Timothy P
> Cc: ras~Force-1
> Subject: URGENT: Follow-up to questions from Senate Staffers on
>
> Would appreciate your help quick! Thanks.
> -----Original Message----- ,
> To: CMS TaskForcelN
> Subject: FW: Follow-up to questions from Senate Staffers
>
> Mike, Here is what I sent Denny Offut.
>
> Jim Benson
> Deputy Director
> WHA/PPC
> Voice: (202) 647-9964 Fax: (202) 736-7450
>
>
>
> To: Offutt, Denison K
> Subject: RE: Follow-up to questions from Senate Staffers
>
> Denny, By and large we have been relying on the Task Force to
tell us what the decisions are vis a vis all of the offers, including those of Cuba and
Venezuela. The Cuba offer has been neither accepted nor rejected. The Venezuela offer of
a $1 million donation to the Red Cross has been accepted, though I do not know if we can
confirm that they carried it out. As for the rest, I do not have any further information
beyond that contained in the matrix. It is my understanding that we did/did accept the
3
UNCLASSIFIED
'~ffers'from both in principal along w~~~~St§]~I~~.
I have not seen any evidence
that we have said anything publicly about either offer, but the following guidance was
drafted and cleared for use. I have not seen that'it has been employed yet:
>
> « File: 9-9 Katrina UP9ate,doc »
> 2. I understand the desk has been in contact with the state
governments regarding the offers, but I'm not sure you could characterize their
discussions' as "advice." Bruce Friedman (7-3360) suggested you give him a call to
clarify the Venezuela issues.
>
>.
> Hope this helps.
>
>
> Jim Benson
> Deputy Director
> WHA/PPC
> Voice: (202) 647-9964 Fax: (202) 736-7450
>
>
>
> From: Offutt, Denison K
> Sent: wednesday, September 14, 2005.4:00 PM
.> To: Benson, James H; TaskForce-l
> Cc: CMS TaskForce1-Director; Bass, John R (OPS); Morrow, Michael
K; SES-O CMS; Brown, Bruce
> Subject: Follow-up to quest,ions from Senate Staffers
>
> Jim/WHA rep on TF-
>
> Ops Director John Bass has two "take-back" questions for WHA from
his Hill briefing. Could you provide background and/or talkingpts by OOB, Thursday
morning?
>1 ;", .,~, .J' ~~ ".r<· .. !:. .1, 0''.; : T~' .', 1,1 .-'
> " 'i j,1;- 1) What is the status/details of the offers of assis,tance ,from' ,', .:1'-
;:,. ; , , ; : , ; ';":P
.cuba and -vene aue l a z . Moreover, what has been said publicly by the USG on their offers,:?
Did the USG officially accept. these offers in principal as we had all other offers,?
>
> 2) Has the USG spoken/advised State (Mississippi, Louisiana)
governments on how to handle the Venezuela offer?
>
;> Tks-
> Denny
;>
>
UNCLASSIFIED
. ---I
UNCLASSIFIED D~2S
Oliva, Amber M
RELEASED n~ FULL
From: CMS TaskForce1 N ,
Sent: Tuesday. September 13, 20052:43 PM
To: CMS TaskForce1-Director; Cintron, Josephine
cc. TaskForce-1; Friedman, Bruce W; Cue, Lourdes C; SES-O_CMS; TaskForce-1
Subject: RE: Venezuela Generators
In response to your question:
The Venezuela desk asked us to find out about CITGOdonating ,generators directly to State
of Louisiana? I spoke to John ???, USAID liaison in Baton Rouge (225-258-2431). He
provided contact info for Cindy Montz (225) 925-7322 Cmontz@ohsep.louisiana.gov who has
indicated that the State of Louisiana could use generators and would be willing to talk
about such an offer. FEMA was unaware of this offer as of yesterday. I have passed this
information to Bruce Friedman on Venezuela desk.
The email from the Yahoo! address liste~ below belongs to Ambassador Sullivan's State
Department - "South" team in Baton Rouge.
Alicia Edwards
WHA Action Officer
Task Force 1
.
-----Original Message----- , . .~'
:'~ .; ~ ~ .; ,:.
From: CMS TaskForcel-Director
To: CMS TaskForce1N; Cintron, Josephine
Cc: TaskForce-11 Friedman, Bruce Wi Cue, Lourdes Ci SES-O CMS
All, 'what is this in reference to.
From:CMS TaskForce1N
Sent: Monday, September 12, 2005 10:25 PM
To: Cintron, Josephine
Cc: TaskForce-l
Subject: FW: Venezuela Generators
Jo,
Can you help us determine where the email originated?TRAVELINGLINE@YAHOO.COM
We're trying to get a couple of messages restored or resent but can't reach
them ...
~----Original Message-----
From: CMS TaskForce1N
To: 'US Dos'
Cc: TaskForce-1
SUbject: FW: Venezuela Generators

REVIEW AUHIORITY: FRANK TUMMINIA
DATE/CASE 10: 19 OCT 2006 200503991 UNCLASSIFIED
UNCLASSIFIED
US Dos, Can you pIs resend the message, or paste in the message"as text,
attachment won't open.
From: CMS TaskForce1L
To: TaskForce-1
)
From: US" Dos [SMTP:TRAVELINGLINE@YAHOO.COM]·
Sent: Monday, September 12, 2005 6:59:56 PM
-To: CMS TaskForcelL
Subject: Fwd: FW: Venezuela Generators
Auto forwarded by a Rule
Attached is the interim response on the inquiry received.
Do You Yahoo!?
Tired of spam? Yahoo! Mail has the best spam protection around
http://mail.yahoo.com
• ,,' r ,~, ,,.
2
UNCLASSIFIED
",l'---'~ I
'UNCLASSIFIED DMll
Oliva, Amber M
Itl!LEA~Ef) n~ PULL
From:. Offutt, Denison K
Sent: Thursday, September 15, 2005 1:44 PM
To: TaskForce-1; AOC Task Force 1F(Arlington)
Subject: Action: FW: Follow-up to questions from Senate Staffera- Cuba; Staffers pis fog
9-9 Katrina
Update.doc
WHA Rep-
In follow-up to my previous, guidance on the Cuba offer. Please format same as the
Venezuela guidance that was just forwarded.
Tks-
Denny
> ---~-Original Message-~---

>From: Benson, James H
>Sent: Wednesday, September 14, 2005 5:08 PM
>To: Offutt, Denison K
>Subject: RE: Follow-up to questions from Senate Staffers
>
>Denny, By and large we have been relying on the Task Force to tell us what the decisions
are vis a vis all of the offers, including those of Cuba and Venezuela. The Cuba offer
has been neither accepted nor rejected. The Venezuela offer of a $1 million donation to
the Red Cross has been accepted, though I do not know if we can confirm that they carried
it, out.:- '::As fiJr 'the rest, I do not have' any further information beyondr that;'contai~ned in
,.; the matrix:'.> 1: It' is my understanding that we did/did accept the o'ffers""i·frOm~Odth'fn'. ~
, p r i nc i paL'' along with all of the others. I have not seen any evidence' that we' 'have' said
anythi~g publicly about either offer, but the following guidance was drafted apd cleared
for use. I have not seen that it has been employed yet:
>
>
>2. I understand the desk has been in contact with the state governments regarding the
offers, but I'm not sure you could characterize their discussions as "advice." Bruce
Friedman (7-3360) suggested you give him a call to clarify the Venezuela issues.
>
>
>Hope this helps.
>
>
>Jim Benson
>Deputy Director
>WHA/PPC
»vo i ce : (:202) 647-9964 Fax: (202) 736-7450
>
>
>=-~-----::-::-:::---:-:-----=---;---=----------
>From: Offutt, Denison K
>Sent: Wednesday, September 14, 2005 4:00 PM.
>To: Benson, James H; TaskForce~l
>Cc: CMS TaskForce1-Director; Bass, John R (OPS); Morrow, Michael K; SES-O_eMS; Brown,
Bruce
>Subject: Follow-up to questions from Senate Staffers
>
>Jim/WHA rep on TF-'
>
>Ops Director John Bass has two "take-back" questions for WHA from his Hill briefing.
Could you provide background and/or talking pts by OOB, Thursday morning?

REVIEW AUTHORITY: FRANK TliMMINIA
.. ' UNCLASSIFIED
> .~
>1) What is the status/details of the offers of assistance from Cuba and Venezuela?
Moreover. what has been said publicly by the USG on their offers? Did the USG officially
accept these offers in principal as we had all other offers?
>
>2) Has the USG spoken/advised State (Mississippi, Louisiana) governments on how to handle
the Venezuela offer?
>
>Tks-
>Denny
>
>
'( t:
t
";
2
UNCLASSIFIED
" . ~,<
UNCLASSIFIED DM \\~
Oliva, Amber M .

Sent: Friday, September 16,20056:57 PM RELEASED IN FULL
To: Brown, Bruce A
Cc: TaskForce-1
Subject: 'ACTION: FW: Congo Query - Venezuela/Cuba Staffers pals log
Importance: High
Follow Up Flag: For Your Information

Flag Status: . Flagged
Congressiona I
Query (Z).doc
Bruce: This is the response to the Congressional Query.
Moses
From: CMS TaskForcelN
To: WHA-Venezuela Desk Officers ~
Cc: TaskForce-I; TaskForce-l
Subject: ACTION: FW: Congo Query - Venezuela/Cuba Staffers pals log
se i rr. need action. on z, this. HPOC not in today. Contact RClbert Downes from. Pqst.JRE.:: " . . :'.:
language:.,~· ';, -, ; ;~;·",~.i .
.•...,,';' .... 'J' ....
From: eMS TaskForce1N
To: Offutt, Denison K
'Cc: TaskForce-1
Subject: FW: ACTION: FW: Congo Query - Venezuela/Cuba Staffers pIs log
Dear Denny:
Per our phone conversation, I have listed the donations items as per the matrix. Thanks,
Alison
-----Origina1 Message-----
From: Offutt, Denison K
Sent: Thursday, September IS, 2005 1:41 PM
To: TaskForce-I; CMS TaskForcel-Director
Subject: ACTION: FW: Congo Query - Venezuela/Cuba Staffers pIs log
WHA Rep.-
Please provide information requested by John Bass and then return to staffers for
forwarding. I will also forward basic guidance from WHA on the Cuba offer. Please put
this in the .same format as the Venezuela attachment.
Tks-
Denny
LINITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF STATE

REVIE\V AUTHORITY: FRANK TUM~'1INIA
DATE/CASE I D: 20 OCT 2006 200503991 UNCLASSIFIED
'.,\.
UNCLASSIFIED
-----Original Message-~--
From: Bass, John R (OPS)
To: Morrow, Michael K; Offutt, Denison K
Subject: FW: Congo Query - Venezuela
PIs have whoever's been working the cuba/venez. Query take a look at this and add toward
the top the summary of what venezuela offered. Once that's in, I'll ship to H. Tx, JB
From: Friedman, Bruce W
Sent: Thursday, September 15, 2005 11:01 AM
Subject: Congo Query - Venezuela
it' ,~ .
. .;.:: )' ..
: :,;, .',-";":
2
UNCLASSIFIED
! .J.
.. , . - ...... ·11 UNCLASSIFIED
"r
RELEASED IN FULL
Venezuela Katrina Assistance
What has Venezuela offered?

• 10 water purification plants
• 20 tons of bottled water
• 50 tons of canned food
• 18 power generationa plants with 850 KW each ",
• Rescue specialists, field hospitals and emergency generators
• Up to US$ 1 million to American Red Cross and state governments
• US$5 million if necessary
• 1 million barrels of gas to Louisiana
• Venezuelan Red Cross has established a BANESCO account to collect funds
for those in Venezuela who want to contribute to the Hurricane Katrina
relief efforts of the American Red Cross
• CITGO directly donating generators to State of Louisiana (this is a private
donation)
What is the status ofVe'n~zue"a?:soffers of assistance?"

• As of September 13, theLouisiana Office of Homeland Security and
Emergency Preparedness had been unable to confirm delivery of the
Venezuelan assistance. Officials from that office have said they would
contact CITGO, the wholly owned subsidiary of Venezuela's state oil
company, through which Venezuela's offer is being channeled.
What has the U.S. said publicly about the offers?

• Late on August 29, Ambassador Brownfield spoke with President Chavez and
other Venezuelan officials, who called to express their sympathies and to offer
assistance for Louisiana.
• Ambassador Brownfield thanked President Chavez and Energy Minister Ramirez,

whom he also has spoken with, and suggested that government officials offer their
assistance the American Red Cross, state and local authorities in Louisiana and
Mississippi and FEMA since the assistance would be channeled through CITGO,
which is based in the U.S. and owns refineries in Louisiana.

REVIEW AUTHORITY: FI\ANK TUMMINIA
UNCLASSIFIED ,
• On September 6, the Department Spokesman noted Venezuela's offer in the

Department's daily briefing, acknowledging our acceptance in principle and noting
that we would look to match needs.
• On September 8, following a speech he delivered at CSIS, Assistant Secretary

Noriega noted that the United States appreciates and is grateful for all offers of
assistance from abroad.
• On September 14, the Department transmitted a letter from Secretary Rice to FM

Rodriguez expressing thanks on behalf of the American people.
Has the U.S. advised the state of Louisiana. on how to handle the offer?
• We have been in contact with Louisiana State government officials, and

understand that they have been in touch with FEMA officials regarding the
Venezuelan offer.
;;. ': :;;

.. " . . : ;;" .'Ol' .r»
UNCLASSIFIED
UNCLASSIFIED DL1.3
Choi, Martino I RELEASED IN FULL
From: CMS TaskForce1 N'
To: Brown, Bruce A
Cc: Bass, John R (OPS); Taskf'orce-t
Subject: FW: ACTION: FW: Congo Query ~ Venezuela/Cuba Staffers pals log
Importance: High
Attachments: Congressional Query (2).doc
Congressional
Query (2).doc
Bruce-
Attached is the Venezuela guidance.
Denny
To: Brown, Bruce A
Cc: TaskForce-I; TaskForce-1
Subject: ACTION: FW: Congo Query - Venezuela/Cuba Staffers pals log
Importance: High
Bruce: This is the response to the. Congressional Query on Venezuela.
Moses
To: WHA-Venezuela Desk Officers
Cc: TaskForce-I; TaskForce-l
Subject: ACTION: FW: Congo Query - Venezuela/CUba Staffers pals log
Still need action on this. H POCK not in today. Contact Robert Downes from post RE:
language.
Moises
From:'CMS TaskForcelN
Sent: Thursday, september 15, 2005 1:55 PM
Cc: TaskForce-1
Subject: FW: ACTION: FW: Congo Query ~ Venezuela/CUba Staffers pIs log
Dear Denny:
Per our phone conversation, I have listed the donations items as per the matrix. Thanks,
Alison
-----Original Message---~-
REVIEW AUTHORITY: FRANK TUMMINIA 1
.DATE/CASE ID: 18 OCT 2006 200503991
UNCLASSIFIED
UNCLASSIFIED
Sent:- Thursday, September 15, 2005 1 :41 PM
To: TaskForce-I; CMS TaskForcel-Director
Subject: ACTION: FW: Congo Query -Venezuela/Cuba Staffers pls log
WHA Rep.-
Please provide information requested by John Bass and then return to staffers for
forwarding. I will also forward basic guidance from WHA on the Cuba offer. Please put
this in the same format as the Venezuela attachment.
Tks-
Denny
To: Morrow, Michael K; offutt, Denison K
PIs have whoever's been working the cuba/venez. Query take a look at this and add toward
the top the summary of what venezuela offered. Once that's in, I'll ship to H. Tx, JB
-----Original Message---~
Subject: Congo Query - Venezuela \
UNCLASSIFIED
UNCLASSIFIED Dll3A
RELEASED IN FULL

• 20 tons of bottled water
• 18 power generationa plants with 850 KW each
• US$5 million if necessary
• I million barrels of gas to Louisiana
donation)
What is the status of Venezuela's offers of assistance?

• As of September l3,the Louisiana Office of Homeland Security and

•. Ambassador Brownfield thanked President Chavez and Energy Minister Ramirez,


DATE/CASE 10: 18 OCT 2006 200503991
UNCLASSIFIED
,...... ',.
,.
.. . - II'.... UNCLASSIFIED

• On September 8, following a speech he delivered atCSIS, Assistant Secretary

assistance from abroad. -
• On September .14, the Department transmitted a letter from Secretary Rice to FM

Has the U.S. advised the state of Louisiana on how to handle the offer?

Venezuelan offer.
UNCLASSIFIED
89/87/2885 13:25 ' 2823426818
UNCLASSIFIED
EMBASSY OF VENEZUELA
CL506 PAGE 82
RELEASED IN FULL.
{) CJ 5'&00 ,Cj
I
c9
.-" .. 8 P ','.
l@l SLI' II
... I
EMBASSY OF THE BOLIVARIAN
REPUBLIC OF VENEZUELA
NOUD-2303
Washington D.C., September 7th, 2005
The Honorable
Condoleezza Rice
Secretary of State
U.S. Department of State
Washington, D.C.
As you know, my government was among the first to offer assistance to, the
people of the United States in the wake of the horrific destruction and human suffering I
caused by Hurricane Katrina, including the devastationof much'of·the,U.s. oilindustry···""",\,;<,oi.,..~~_....

in the Gulf Coast that has seriously curtailed the supply of refined petroleum products,
especially gasoline, not only in 'that portion of the country, but throughout the United
States. Accordingly, I am pleased to be able to inform you that President Hugo Chavez
has ordered our national oil company, Petroleos de Venezuela, S.A. (PDVSA), to divert
approximately one million barrels of PDVSA-produced gasoline as soon as possible
from our storage and other customers and to send it directly to the United States. This
volume is in addition to PDVSA's normal shipments to the United. States that regularly
place PDVSA among the top foreign suppliers of refined petroleum products and
gasoline to this country.
These four additional cargoes of gasoline, totaling over 960,000 barrels, will' be
sent to, and distributed by, PDVSA's wholly-owned U.S. subsidiary, CITGD Petroleum
Corp. (CITGO), and will supplement PDVSA's previously scheduled shipments to
QTGO in September of 1.2 million barrels of petroleum, comprised of three gasoline
cargoes and two crude oil cargoes. Each of the four additional gasoline cargoes will be
shipped from Venezuela to CITGO during the following time frames: September 14-16,
September 23-25, September 28-30, and September 29-Qctober 1, With shipping time
from Venezuela to the U.S. Gulf Coast only four to five days, these Venezuelan cargoes
will arrive much more quickly than cargoes from Europe or the Middle East and, hence,
will be able to meet U.s. needs that much sooner.

DATE/CASE 10: 28 JVL 2006 200503991
UNCLASSIFIED
t·:: •. " '.. UNCLASSIFIED
a~/a7/2005 13:25 2823426810 EMBASSV OF VENEZUELA PAGE 03
Venezuela is proud of its record as a consistent and reliable supplier of energy to

the United States. The additional gasoline that is being shipped to the United States
reflects. the value we place on this relationship and our willingness and continued
commitment to meet u.s. energy needs both in times of normalcy and crisis. We only
hope that our assistance will help alleviate some of the dislocation that has been
experienced and provide a measure of relief to the people of the United States theyas
begin their recovery from the catastrophic damage wrought by Hurricane Katrina.
Please receive my highest appreciation and regards.
Sincerely,
lJNCLASSIFIED
UNCLASSIFIED
Bentes, Julianna W
From:
Sent:
Visek, Richard C RELEASED IN FULL
Wednesday, September 21,20053:33 PM
To: . Thessin, James H
Cc: Borek, Jamison S
SUbject: FW: (SBU) Generators for Lousiana- Katrina Relief - Response to GOV/ action wha repl
Jim: The e-mail chain below concerns generators that the Government of Venezuela wants to provide directly to the State
of Louisiana. The State evidently wants them and the two are in contact with one another. Did you and Peter look at a
similar foreign-local pipeline previously, and jf so what was the guidance -- if any? Thnx, Rich
From: Whitaker, Kevin M
sent: Wednesday, September 21,20053:12 PM
To: Sullivan, Joseph (Katrina)(Baton Rouge); McCarthy, Deborah A(MS Rm 6912); Martinez, EduardoJ(MS mi 3248); Downes, Robert •
R; Shapiro, Charles S(MS Rm 6262); Katrina Working Group
Cc: Urs, Krishna R(MS Rm 3248); Friedman, Bruce W(MS Rm 4915); Cue, Lourdes C(MS Rm 4915)
Subject: RE: (SBU) Generators for Lousiana - Katrina Relief - Response to GOV/ action wha rep!
This is all fine by us. The outstanding question is how to get the generators to louisiana. I am only concerned about
Winding that aspect up to the extent that it appears to be an outstanding action for us, since the Minister of Interior called
us on the matter a week ago. I would rather have an answer for him, but it appears at this point that there is no answer to
that question. .
-----{)riginal Message-----
From: Sullivan, Joseph (Katrina)
sent: Wednesday, September 21, 2005 12:26 PM
To: McCarthy, Deborah A; Martinez, Eduardo J; Whitaker, Kevin MC(aracas); Downes, Robert R«(aracas); Shapiro, Charles S; Katrina
Worklng Group
cc: Urs, Krishna R; Friedman, Bruce W; Cue, Lourdes C
Subject: RE: (SBU) Generators for Lousiana - Katrina Relief ~ Response to GOV/ action wha rep!
Deborah and everyone else: I 'am not sure why we are the ones with a drive to wind this up. I have been informed that
the Governor's Chief of Staff is dealing directly with the GOV/CITGO on this issue. It is above Mary Williams pay
grade at this stage. I do not have his name with me here at this classified unit. I think it comes back to us if they
definitely ask for our transport help or need clearance for their C-130's.
I can provide further info if things come to me on the unclass system.
I was told that State of louisiana did want the generators and would work the details directly with the venezuetens,
which seems to be the most ·sensible way to proceed.
Joe
From: Mccarthy, Deborah A

Sent: Tuesday, September 20, 2005 2:00 .PM
To: Martinez, Eduardo J; Whitaker, Kevin M(caracas); Sullivan, Joseph (Katrina); Downes, Robert R(CClracas);
Shapiro, Charles S; Katrina Working Group
Cc: Urs,Krishna R; Friedman, Bruce W; Cue, Lourdes C
'Subject: RE: (SBU) Generators for Lousiana - Katrina Relief - Response to GOV/ action wha rep!
Ed/Michelle - let's do phone call and see how we can close loop on this;
From: Martinez, Eduardo J

sent: Tuesday, September 20, 2005 1:32 PM .
To: Whitaker, Kevin M«(aracas); Sullivan, Joseph (Katrina); Downes, Robert R«(aracas)i McCarthy, Deborah A; Shapiro, Charles S;
Katrina Working Group
ce Urs, Krishna R; Friedman, Bruce W; Cue, Lourdes C .
Subject: RE: (SBU) Generators for Lousiana - Katrina Relief - Responseto GOV! action wha repl
Spoke to OFDA again. The inform me that they are NOT/NOT in the business of coordinating or tracking offers of
assistance made directly to state and lower levels of government. I have a phone call into Mary Williams with the
1
REVIEW AUTHORITY: FRANK TUMMINIA .
UN CLASSIFIED
DATE/CASE In: 17 AUG 2006 200503991
UNCLASSIFIED
State of Louisiana.
Debra/Michelle: Do you have a contact with the State of Louisiana that you recommend I call? .

Sent: Tuesday, September 20,20051:12 PM
To; Sullivan, Joseph (Katrina)(Baton Rouge); Downes, Robert R; McCarthy, Deborah A(MS Rm 6912); Shapiro,
Charles S(MS Rm 6262); Katrina Working Group; Martinez, Eduardo J(MS rm 3248)
Subject: RE: (SBU) Generators for Lousiana - Katrina Relief - Response to GOV/ action wha rep'!
Joe, glad you are there. Sorry to bug you with this, but we've got two issues here, and can't seem to get an answer on
them, despite the good efforts of WHA, etc. -
1) The Venes offered up to 16850 kw generators to the State of Louisiana through Citgo. We've linked up the state
govt, the GOV. Citgo. etc, etc, but cannot get an answer to the question: Does the state government need the
generators or not? If the answeris no, thanks, we're beyond that, then fine, we stop right there. Ideally the state govt
would so respond to the GOV but we can carry this to the govt if needed.
2) In the event Louisiana wants the generators, the Vene Minister of Interior told me that their C130s can only carry
two of the devices at a time, and so offered to let us fly down a big transport aircraft (C5, C17) to pick up a larqer
number. We don't have an answer to this question, either.
Is there anybody who could definitively enough tell us what the answers are: does Louisiana need the generators, and
if so, would the USAF fly down a big transport ale to pick them up?
Understand we are not lobbying for a particular response -- just for any response. The Vene tactic has been to
complain that we've not even bothered to respond to them. I know WHA has caught some flak on the Hill on this very
point, even though Brownfield and others have specifically thanked VZ for their generosity. I think any response is
fine, including that Louisiana doesn't need the generators, or that it does but there's no way the USAF can fly down to
get them. .
If there's any way you can help us answer these two questions, I'd be grateful.
To: Downes, Robert R(caracas); McCarthy, Deborah A; Shapiro, Charles Si Katrina Working Group; Martinez, Eduardo J
Cc: Urs, Krishna Ri Friedman, Bruce W; Cue, Lourdes C; Whitaker, Kevin M(caracas)
This email is correct. Onlly possible variation is my understanding the GOV might be willing to transport the
generators in their own Hercules. .
From: Downes, Robert R

Sent: Tuesday, September 20; 2005 9:37 AM
To: Mccarthy, Deborah A(MS Rm 6912); Shapiro, Charles S(MS Rm 6262); Katrina Working Group; Martinez,
Eduardo J(MS rm 3248)
Cc: Urs, Krishna R(MS Rm 3248); Friedman, Bruce W(MS Rm 4915); Cue, Lourdes C(MS Rm 4915); Whitaker,
Kevin M . .
Deborah, Eduardo,
Note, we (Ambassador, Charge' and PAD) have thanked Venezuela generically for its offers of support on
several ocassions and so has the Secretary (note delivered in writing) .
. Key question at the moment is 1) their offer of generators to the State of Louisiana (not USG)i and 2) their request
to Charge' for possible USG airlift assistance to deliver same. Embassy focus Is on a response to GOV. On #1
2
UNCLASSIFIED
UNCLASSIFIED
would think answer depends on continued need on generators by (SoL) and logistical difficulties/costs in delivery;.
on #2 answer would depend on #1, judgement of cost effectiveness of providing transport (including significant '
, logistical difficulties), and availability due to other pressing needs. .
Rgds. Robert .
--~--Original
Message-····
sent: Tuesday, september 20, 2005 9:03 AM
To: Shapiro, Charles S; Katrina Working Group
Cc: Downes, Robert R(caracas); Urs, Krishna R; Friedman, Bruce W; Cue, Lourdes C
Subject: RE: (SBU) Generators for touslana - Katrina Relief - Response to GOV/ action wha repl
This is action what rep on task force. Eduardo Martinez. Eduardo, you need to check series of e-mails which
Michelle should get his morning (I may have some to sen dyou) on latest state' of play. Pull up cables that were
incoming. We have not replied formally to Venezuela on their offers which include money. You need to reach
out to OFDA rep (get name from Michelle) and get answer. We then prepare cable and have templates.
From: Shapiro, CharlesS

To: Mccarthy, Deborah A
Cc: Downes, Robert R(caracas)
Subject: FW; (SBU) Generators for Lousiana - Katrina Relief· Response to GOV
FYI.
From: . Downes, Robert R

To: Friedman, Bruce W(MS Rm 4915)
Cc: Whitaker, Kevin M; French, Philip C(HSTRoom 4915); Danlelewski, Julie C(MS Rm 4915); Cue; Lourdes C(MS Rm 4915); Penn,
Brian A; Shapiro, Charles S(MS Rm 6262)·
Subject: (SBU) Generators for Lousiana - Katrina Relief· Response to GOV
Bruce,
Embassy would like to get back to the GOV on their offer of power generators to Louisana and their request
for USG airlift assistance (State 169494) in delivering those generators. (Reftel notes September 14 call by.
Min of Interior Chacon to Charge' and requests guidance, this follows up on a Aug 30 letter by the Venezuelan
Embassy to the Governor of Louisiana). I understandthe task force has been disbanded and replaced by a
working group. J was unable to reach the working group this morning. Could you have someone do some
checking and see if we can get additional guidance to respond to the GOV. Thanks, Robert
3
·UNCLASSIFIED
UNCLASSIFIED
Bentes, Julianna W
From: CMS TaskForce1-Director(S/ES-OITF) RELEASED IN FlJLL

Sent: Friday. September 16. 2005 7:03 PM
Cc: SES-O.:...CMS
Subject: FW: FROM THE VENEZUELA DESK - SUMMARY OF OFFERS OF ASSISTANCE FROM
VENEZUELA
--··Original Message-----
sent: Tuesday, September 13, 2005 7:06 PM
To: TaskForce-l
Cc: TaskForce-!
Subject: FROM THE VENEZUELA DESK - SUMMARY OF OFFERS OF ASSISTANCE FROM VENEZUELA
• $1 million in cash to be donated by CITGO (LOGGED)

• 120 specialists with rescue and first aid equipment (LOGGED)
• 2 rapid deployment mobile hospital units to attend 150 persons each (LOGGED)
• 18 power generation plants with 850 KW each (LOGGED)
• 10 water purification plants (Not logged)
• 20 tons of bottled water (Not logged)
• 50 tons of canned food (Not logged)
In addition to the above. GoV announced that it was ready to disburse up to $5 million in assistance if necessary. Also.
the Venezuelan branch of the Red Cross opened an account to collect funds from Venezuelans who wanted to contribute
to hurricane relief effort. .

1
DATE/CASE ID: 15 AUG 2006 200503991 UNCLASSIFIED
Page 1 of3
O'Herron, Petra C
From: US Dos I ----J

B6
Sent: Thursday. September·29. 2005 4:32 PM
To: Waters. April S; Martinez. Eduardo J
Cc: .Harris. Michelle F~L.----;_-;;--""':"""";"_ _"""":,,,"--:-IDeborah McCarthy
Subject: RE: venezuela generatorsllouisiana contact
I have now talked to my contact and found the name of the individual in the State Government who has
talked to the Venezuelans and Citgo about the generator offer. He is 1
J:d I have just
spoken to him atl I
Although he was out-o -pocket for several ays because of
thhe second humcane, he tells me that he responded to both the Venezuelan Embassy his DC and to the
CITGO contact the Embassy provided that he would like to know the specific terms of the offer; i.e. was
it a permanent donation or was it an offer to use the generators for a period of time; He has received no
response to his email. .
(FYI: I Isaid that it might be worthwhile for Louisiana to pay for the generators if this was a
permanent offer and might not be if only a loan.) There may have been other details in his
communication to the Embassy and CITGO, but this was the essence .So I think either the desk or
Embassy Caracas can usefully prod the Venezuelans and CITGO to respond to k
~ (BTW.
I ~ays that he has received all the t~chnical specs that he needs in IS ~onversations ,to date.
For what It IS worth, I shall also pass on the advisory from several weeks of following generator Issues
that these are complicated issues and generators needed one day are often not needed by later in the day
or have had the need met from another source. That said, it should be the State of Louisiana which. says
it needs or does not in the first instance. .
"Waters, April SrI <WatersAS@State.gov>wrote:
Larry will contact Ambassador Sullivan/State South.
Thank you for checking!
April
From: Martinez, Eduardo J(WHA/EPSC)

sent: Thursday, September 29, 2005 7:17 AM
To: Waters, April 5
Cc: Harris, Michelle F;
Subject: RE: venezue"ra-g-e-n-e-ra"""t-or-s"""'-ou""'j""'si-an-a-c-o....lntact
Caracas is itching to figure out if the generators are needed by Louisiana or not so that they can get back
to the GOV. Can I contact them myself or should State South be the primary contact?
.Fro~: Waters, April·S
Sent: Thursday, September29,2005 10:10 AM

REVlEW AUTHORITY: FRANK TUMMINIA
DA7Tf{9Wo~D: 13 SEP 2006 200503991
UNCLASSIFIED
Page 1 of 1
UNCLASSIFIED
RELEASED IN PART
_______________
O'Herron, Petra C -...,..B_6_~:~
From: Martinez, Eduardo J(WHAIEPSC)
Sent: Thursday. October 06, 2005 5:10 PM
To: Harris, Michelle F
Subject: FW: Venezuela Katrina.doc! URGENT FOR BURNS

sent: Thursday, October 06,200510:18 AM
To: Whitaker, Kevin M(caracas}; Martinez, Eduardo J; Downes, Robert R(caracas)
Subject: FW: Venezuela Katrina.doc! URGENT FOR BURNS ' .
B6
We are trying to finalize the attache for Ps use on Hill today. I tried callingllre generators but he does not
answer. Are we absolutely sure the other items they proferred were nevel=creTivei'ed. We have not record here of
delivery of the food, etc.
From: McCarthy, Deborah A

Sent: Thursday, October 06, 2005 9:43 AM
To: Friedman, Bruce W
Subject: Venezuela Katrina.doc
Bruce, here it is. I suggest he only go with page 1. Who do I send this to?
. UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF STATE

DA'f~6t1§~dD: 08 SEP 2006 200503991
UNCLASSIFIED
,.,! >, ' . _ oft III ..
. "
Norman, Alain G
From: . McCarthy, Deborah A
Sent: Wednesday, September 21,20056:02 PM
To: Whitaker, Kevin M(Caracas); Sullivan, Joseph (Katrina); Martinez, Eduardo J; Downes, Robert
R(Caracas); Shapiro. Charles S; Katrina Working Group
Cc: Urs, Krishna R; Friedman, Bruce W; Cue, Lourdes C
SUbject: RE: (SBU) Generators for Lousiana • Katrina Relief - Response to GOV/ action wha rep!
If they are working it, fine. WE will list it as pledge to Louisianna. Need to close loop on other items so we can send formal
merci.

Sent: Wednesday, september 21,20053:12 PM
To: Sullivan, Joseph (Katrina)(Baton Rouge); McCarthy, Deborah A(MS Rm 6912); Martinez, Eduardo J(MS rm 3248); Downes, Robert
R; Shapiro, Charles S(MS Rm 6262); Katrina Working Group
Subject: RE: (SBU) Generators for Louslana - Katrina Relief - Responseto GOv/ acnon wha rep!
This is all fine by us. The outstanding question is how to get the generators to Louisiana. I am only concerned about
winding that aspect up to the extent that it appears to be an outstanding action for us, since the Minister of Interior called
us on the matter a week ago. I would rather have an answer for him, but it appears at this point that there is no answer to
that question.
From: Sullivan, Joseph (KatI1na)
. To: McCarthy, Deborah A; Martinez, Eduardo J; Whitaker, Kevin M(caracas); DOwnes, Robert R(caracas); Shapiro, Charles S;
Subject: RE: (SBU) Generators for lousiana - Katrina Relief - Response to GOy! action wha rep!
Deborah and everyone else: I am not sure why we are the ones with a drive to wind this up. I have been informed that
the Governor's Chief of Staff is dealing directly with the GOV/CITGO on this issue. It is above Mary Williams pay
grade at this stage. I do not have his name with me here at this classified unit. I think it comes back to us if they
definitely ask for our transport help or need clearance for their C-130's.
I can provide further info if things come to me on the unclass system.
J was told that State of Louisiana did want the generators and would work the details directly with the Venezuelans,
which seems to be the most sensible way to proceed.
Joe

To: Martinez, Eduardo J; Whitaker, Kevin M(Caracas); Sullivan, Joseph (Katrina); Downes, Robert R(caracas);
Shapiro, Charles S; Katrina Working Group
Ed/Michelle - let's do phone call and see how we can close loop on this.

To: Whitaker, Kevin M(caracas); Sullivan, Joseph (Katrina); Downes, Robert R(caracas); McCarthy, Deborah A; Shapiro, Charles S;
Cc: Urs, Krishna R; Friedman, Bruce W; Cue, lourdes C
Subject: RE: (SBU) Generators for Louslana - Katrina Relief· Response to GOy! action wha rep! .
Spoke to OFDA again. The inform me that they are NOT/NOT in the business of coordinating or tracking offers of
assistance made directly to state and lower levels of government. I have a phone call into Mary Williams with the
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF STATE ."
REVIEW AUTHORITY: FRANK TUMMINIA ,lro. TCLASSIFIED
DATE/CASE In: 24 AUG 2006 200503991 U 1'1
UNCLASSIFIED
State of Louisiana.
Debra/Michelle: Do you have a contact with the State of Louisiana that you recommend I call?

sent: Tuesday, September 20, 2005~1:12 PM
To: Sullivan, Joseph (Katrina)(Baton Rouge); Downes, Robert R; McCarthy, Deborah A(MS Rm 6912); Shapiro,
Charles S(MS Rm 6262); Katrina Working Group; Martinez, Eduardo'J(MS rm 3248)
Cc: Vrs, Krishna R(MS Rm 3248); Friedman, Bruce W(MS Rm 4915); Cue, Lourdes C(MS Rm 4915)
Subject: RE: (SBU) Generators for Lousiana - Katrina Relief - Response to GOV! action wha rep!
Joe, glad you are there. Sorry to bug you with this, but we've got two issues here, and can't seem to get an answer on
them, despite the good efforts of WHA, etc.
1) The Venes offered up to 16 850 kw generators to the State of Louisiana through Citgo. We've linked up the state
govt, the GOV, Citgo, etc, etc, but cannot get an answer to the question: Does the state government need the
generators or not? If the answer is no, thanks, We're beyond that, then fine, we stop right there. Jdeallythe state govt
would so respond to the GOV but we can carry this to the govt if needed.
2) In the event Louisiana wants the generators, the Vene Minister of Interior told me that their C130s can only carry
two of the devices at a time. and so offered to let us fly down a big transport aircraft (C5, C17) to pick up a larger
number. We don't have an answer to this question, either.
Is there anybody who could definitively enough tell us what the answers are: does Louisiana need the generators, and
if so, would the USAF fly down a big transport a/c to picK them up?
Understand we are not lobbying for a particular response _.just for any response. The Vene tactic has been to
complain that we've not even bothered to respond to them. I know WHA has caught some flak on the Hill on this very
point, even though Brownfield, and others have specifically thanked VZ for their generosity. I think any response is
fine, including that Louisiana doesn't need the generators, or that it does but there's no,way the USAF can fly down to
get them.
If there's any way you can help us answer these two questions, I'd be grateful.
·····Orlglnal Message-----
Sent: Tuesday, september 20, 2005 12:48 PM
To: Downes, Robert R(caracas); Mccarthy, Deborah A; Shapiro, Olarles S; Katrina WorkingGroup; Martinez, Eduardo J
Cc: Urs, KrIshna R; Friedman, Bruce W; Cue, Lourdes C; Whitaker, Kevin M(caracas)
Subject: RE: (SBU) Generators for Louslana • Katrina Relief· Response to GOV/ action wha rep!
This email is correct. Onliy possible variation is my understanding the GOV might be willing to transport the
generators in their own Hercules. .
\,

sent: Tuesday, September 20, 2005 9:37 AM
To: Mccarthy, Deborah A(MS Rm 6912); Shapiro, Charles S(MS Rm 6262); Katrina Working Group; Martinez,
Eduardo J(MS rm 3248)
Cc: UI'S, Krishna R(MS Rm 3248); Friedman, Bruce W(MS Rm 4915); Cue, Lourdes qMS Rm 4915); Whitaker,
Kevin M
SUbject: RE: (SBU) Generators for Lousiana - Katrina Relief - Response to GOV! action wha rep!
Deborah, Eduardo,
Note, we (Ambassador, Charge' and PAO) have thanked Venezuela generically for its offers of support on
several ocassions and so has the Secretary (note delivered in writing).
Key question at the moment is 1) their offer of generators to the State of Louisiana (not USG): and 2) their request
10 Charge"for possible USG airlift assistance to deliver same. Embassy focus is on a response to GOV. On #1
UNCtASSIFIED
UNCLASSIFIED
would think answer depends on continued need on generators by (SoL) and logistical difficulties/costs in delivery;
on #2 answer would depend on #1,judgement of cost effectiveness of providing transport (including significant
logistical difficulties), and availability due to other pressing needs. .
Rgds,Robert
--Onglnal Message-----
Sent: Tuesday, September 20, 20059:03 AM
To: Shapiro, Charles 5; Katrina Worklng Group
Cc: Downes, Robert R(caracas); Urs, Krishna R; Friedman, Bruce W; Cue, Lourdes C
Subject: RE: (SBU) Generators for Lousiana - Katrina Relief - Response to GOV/ action wha repf
This is action what rep on task force. Eduardo Martinez. Eduardo, you need to check series of e-mails which
Michelle should get his morning (I may have some to sen dyou) on latest state of play. Pull up cables that were
incoming. We have not replied formally to Venezuela on their offers which include money. You need to reach
out to OFDA rep (get name from Michelle) and get answer. We then prepare cable and have templates.
From: Shapiro, Charles S

Sent: Monday, September 19, 20055:54 PM
Subject: FW: (SBU) Generators for Lousiana - Katrina Relief- Response to GOV
FYI.
. From: Downes, RobertR

Sent: Monday, September 19,200512:38 PM
To: Friedman, Bruce W(MS Rm 4915) .
ce Whitaker, KellinM; French, Philip C(HST Room 4915); Danielewsld, Julle C(MS Rm 4915); Cue, Lourdes C(MS Rm
4915); Penn, Brian A; Shapiro, Chartes S(MS Rm6262)
SUbject: (SBU) Generators for touslana - Katrina Rellef- Response to GOV
Bruce,
Embassy would like to get back to the GOVan their offer of power generators to Louisana and their request
for USG airlift assistance (State 169494) in delivering those generators. (Reftel notes September 14 call by
Min of Interior Chacon to Charge' and requests guidance, this follows up on a Aug 30 letter by the Venezuelan
Embassy to the Governor of Louisiana). I understand the task force has been disbanded and replaced by a
working group. 'was unable to reach the working group this morning. Could you have someone do some
chec~ing and see if we can get additional guidance to respond to the GOV. Thanks, Robert
UNctASSIFIED
lJNCLASSIFIED
Norman, Alain G
From: Sullivan, Joseph (Katrina) RELEASED IN FULL
Sent: 'Tuesday, September 20,200512:50 PM
To: McCarthy, Deborah A; Shapiro, Charles S; Katrina Working Group
Cc: Downes, Robert R(Caracas); Urs, Krishna R; Friedman, Bruce W; Cue, Lourdes C
SUbject: RE: (SBU) Generators for Lousiana - Katrina Relief - Response to GOVI action wha rep! I
"i
i
We have addressed this issue several times in DAR's, which have integrated input from USAID Baton Rouge team. JGS

Sent: Tuesday, september 20,20058:03 AM
This is action what rep on task force, Eduardo Martinez. Eduardo, you need to check series of e-rnalls which Michelle
should get his morning (I may have some to sen dyou) on latest state of play. Pull up cables that were incoming. We have
not replied formally to Venezuela on their offers which include money. You need.to reach out to .OFDA rep (get name from
Michelle) and get answer. We then prepare cable and have templates.

To: Mccarthy, Deborah A
cc: Downes, Robert R(caracas)
Subject: FW: (SSU) Generators for Louslana - Katrina Relief- Response to GOV
FYI.

sent: Monday, September 19,200512:38 PM
Cc: Whitaker, Kevin Mi French, PhilipC(HST Room 4915); Danielewski, Julie C(MS Rm 4915); Cue, Lourdes C(MS Rm4915); Penn,
Brian A; Shapiro, O1arles S(MS Rm 6262)
Subject: (SBU) Generators for Louslana - Katrina Relief - Response to GOV
Bruce,
Embassy would like to get back to the GOV on their offer of power generators to Louisana and their request for USG
airlift assistance (State 169494) in delivering those generators. (Reftel notes September 14 call by Min of Interior Chacon
to Charge' and requests gUidance, this follows up on a Aug 30 letter by the Venezuelan Embassy to the Governor of
Louisiana). I understand the task force has been disbanded and replaced by a working group. I was unable to reach the
working group this morning. Could you have someone do some checking and see jf we can get additional guidance to
respond to the GOV. Thanks, Robert
UNlTED STATES DEPARTMENT OF STATE

DATE/CASE ID: 22 AUG 2006 200503991 UNCLASSIFIED
..,.A. ••••• _ • .Jl
UNCLASSIFIED ElZ 2-5S
Norman, Alain G
·1
From: Sullivan, Joseph (Katrina) i RELEASED IN FULL
Sent: Tuesday, September 20,200512:46 PM
To: Ponds, Fernandez L(Main State Rm 2422); Martinez,. Eduardo J; McCarthy, Deborah A;
Shapiro. Charles S; Katrina Working Group
Cc: Downes, Robert R(Caracas); Urs, Krishna R; Friedman, Bruce W; Cue. lourdes C
Subject: RE: (SBU) Generators for Lousiana - Katrina Relief - Response to GOVI action wha rep!
This is not correct. FEMA is not thhe intended recipient nor the decision point for these generators. The State of Louisiana
was the intended beneficiary and was interested at last check. We have put the Louisiana State experts in direct contact
with the Venezuelans/CITGO and we should hear back at whatever point transportation becomes the issue since only two
of these large generators fit on one Hercules.
If you need to contact us on this issue, please send on the unclass system so that I can share with AID here and with
Louisiana State authorities.
Joe Sullivan
From: Ponds, Fernandez L

Sent: Tuesday, September 20, 2005 9:52 AM
To: Martinez, Eduardo J(MS rm 3248); Mccarthy, Deborah A(MS Rm 6912); Shapiro, Charles S(MS Rm 6262); Katrina
Working Group
Cc: Downes, Robert R(Caracas); Urs, Krishna R(MS Rm 3248); Friedman, Bruce W(MS Rm 4915); Cue, Lourdes C(MS Rm
4915)
Please allow PM to chop on the template and out going declines. r/FLP

Sent: Tuesday, September 20,200510:19 AM
To: Martinez, Eduardo J; Mccarthy, Deborah A; Shapiro, Charles S; Katrina Working Group
OFDA informed me that FEMA declined this request along with other outstanding offers of generators. We can now send
out a cable declining this and other outstanding offers of Venezuelan assistance unless instructed otherwise.
I
I
Debby/Michelle: Can you send me the templates?

To: Mccarthy, Deborah A; Shapiro, Charles S; Katrina Working Group
I have a call into OFDA on this. Should have info/guidance shortly.

Sent: Tuesday, September 20,20059:03 AM
Cc: Downes, Robert R(Caracas); Urs, Krishna R; Friedman, Bruce Wi Cue, Lourdes C
This is action what rep on task force. Eduardo Martinez. Eduardo, you need to check series of e-mails which Michelle

UNCLASSIFIED
DATE/CASE 10: 22 AUG 2006 200503991
UNCLASSIFIED
should get his nioming"(1 may have some to sen dyou) on latest state of play. Pull up cables that were incoming. We have
not replied formally to Venezuela on their offers which include money. You need to reach out to OFDA rep (get name from
Michelle) and get answer. We then prepare cable and have templates.

sent: Monday, September 19, 2005 5:54 PM
Subject: FW: (SBU) Generators for Lousiana - Katrina Relief - Response to GOV
FYI.
From: Downes, RobertR

Sent: Monday, september 19, 2005 12:38 PM
Cc: Whitaker, Kevin M;'Frend1; PhilipC(HST Room 4915); Danlelewskl, JulieC(MS Rm 4915); Cue, Lourdes C(MS Rm 4915); Penn,
Brian A; Shapiro, Charles S(MS Rm 6262)
Subject: (SBU) Generators for Lousiana - Katrina Relief- Response to GOV
Bruce,
Embassy would like to get back to the GOV on their offer of power generators to Louisana and their request for USG
airlift assistance (State 169494) in delivering those generators. (Reftel notes September 14 call by Min of Interior Chacon
to Charge' and requests guidance, this follows up on a Aug 30 letter by the Venezuelan Embassy to the Governor of "
Louisiana). I understand the task force has been disbanded and replaced by a working group. I was unable to reach the
working group this morning. Could you have someone do some checking and see if we can get additional guidance to
respond to the GOV, Thanks, Robert
".
UNCEASSIFIED
UNCLASSIFIED Page 2of3
To: Martinez, Eduardo J
Cc: Harris, Mlc:helle Fil_~ __~__ B6
SUbject: RE: venezuela generators/louisiana contact
He was able to reach Larry Collins and one other person. They had been focused on Rita until now and
will need time to get back on track.
April
From: Martinez, Eduardo J(WHNEPSq

To: Waters, April S .
'cc:
Harris, Michelle F
Subject: FW: venezuela generators/louisiana contact
April,
Michelle suggested that I get in contact you. I've been unable to get in contact with anyone from the
State of Louisiana in order to track down the actual need for generators being ottered by Venezuela. Can
you throw me some contacts that I can work?
thanks!
Eduardo J. Martinez
Katrina Virtual Working Group
WHA Representative
2026474408
. marttnezeirsstate.gov
To: M<£arthy, Deborah A; Hams, Michelle F
Cc: Downes, Robert R(Caracas); DanfelewskJ, JulieC
Subject: venezuela generators/louisIana contact
Debra/Michelle.
Robert Downes in Caracas and I came up with a two-pronged strategy for closing the loop on the
Venezuelan generator offer once and for all. Robert is going to get in touch with his CITGO contacts in
Houston to see if they were aware of the status of the generators while I am going to try to determine
. 7/19/2006 UNCLASSIFIED
Page 3 of3
UNCLASSIFIED
once and for all if the State of Louisiana is in need of generators. I had been given contact info for Mary
Williams; however, she never called me back. Do either of you have another contact with Louisiana that I
can contact?
ed
Yahoo! for Good

Click here to donate to the Hurricane Katrina relief effort.
7/1912006 UNCLASSIFIED
UNCLASSIFIED
Williams, "Devin M RELEASED IN FULL
From: eMS TaskForce1 L
To: TaskForce-1
Subject: . FW: FOR AMANDA: RE: Press Points on Venezuela's Offer - Please clear ASAP!
>----------
>From: Watnik, Eric A
>Sent: Tuesday, September 06, 2005 1~:51:22 AM
>To: CMS TaskForcelL
>Subject: FOR AMANDA: RE: Press Points on Venezuela's Offer - Please clear ASAP!
>Auto forwarded by a Rule
>
WHA clears.
Eric
>
>::F:-r-o-m-:-------=C=-M::S:-:T=-a-s=-k::F:-o-r-c-e--=l:-:L:------------
>Sent: Tuesday, September 06, 2005 11:33 AM
>To: Watnik, EricA
>Cc: TaskForce-l
>Subject: Press Points on Venezuela's Offer - Please clear ASAP!
>
>Eric,
>
>Please clear on the attached points ASAP. Thanks!
>
>Amanda
>Hurricane Katrina Task Force
>7-6611
>
>
>Q: What has been done about the offer of assistance from Venezuela?
>
>A: The United States expresses its gratitude to the government and people of Venezuela
for the offer of assistance to the hurricane victims.
>
>- We understand that the Government of Venezuela will channel its assistance through
Citgo, the U.S. sUbsidiary of the Venezuelan state oil company, PDVSA. Citgo has two
refineries in Lo~isiana, and as a local employer in Louisiana has ties to that community_
We understand that Citgo has been in touch with Office ,of the Governor of Lousiana and the
American Red Cross regarding assistance for the hurricane victims.
>

DATE/CASE ID: 16 NOV 2006 200503991
UNCLASSIFIED /
, UNCLASSIFIED
RELEASED IN FULL
The Government of Venezuela offered assistance directly to the Governor of

Louisiana. The offer included: .
• 2Q tons ofbottled water
• 18 power generation plants with 850 KW each
• $1 million in cash to be donated by CITGO, the wholly owned subsidiary of
Venezuela's oil company.
Later, the GOV indicated it would provide 1 million barrels of gasoline to

Louisiana.

• As of October 4, CITGO indicated it had disbursed $1.5 million in Katrina
as well as Rita assistance. We are awaiting details on the specific Katrina
disbursements.
• The gasoline shipments were not donations but additional supplies to
compensate for reduced refinery output in the U.S.
• CITGO has indicated it has provided 80,000 gallons of gasoline as a free
donation to entities in the Lake Charles; LA area. We are seeking
confirmation of this donation.
• The State government of Louisiana has requested further information on the.
generator offer to determine if it was a donation or a loan and has received
no response as of 9/29.
What have other OPEC members donated?
The government of Kuwait has pledged $500 million, the United Arab
Emirates has sent $100 million and other OPEC members have pledged over $100
million.
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF STATE·

DATE/CASE 10: 08 SEP 2006 200503991 UNCLASSIFIED
, UNCLASSIFIED

which is based in the U.S. and owns refineries in Louisiana•.
• On September 6, the Department Spokesman noted Venezuela's offer in the.



Updated 10/6/05 by KWG DMcCarthy
UNCLASSIFIED
UNCLASSIFIED ~%-
Oliva, Amber M
From: eMS TaskForce1-Director

ltl!t:t!A5l"::t:l ~
Cc: SES-O_CMS -
SUbject: FW: FROM THE VENEZUELA DESK -- SUMMARY OF OFFERS OF ASSISTANCE FROM
VENEZUELA
> -----original Message-----

>From: CMS TaskForcelN
>Sent: Tuesday, September 13, 2005 7:06 PM
>To: TaskForce-l
>Cc: TaskForce-1
>Subject: FROM THE VENEZUELA DESK - SUMMARY OF OFFERS OF ASSISTANCE FROM VENEZUELA
>-
>
>* $1 million in cash to be donated by CITGO (LOGGED)
>* 120 specialists with rescue and first aid equipment (LOGGED)
>* 2 rapid deployment mobile hospital units to attend 150 persons each (LOGGED)
>* 18 power generation plants with 850 KW each (LOGGED)
>* 10 water purification plants (Not logged)
>* 20 tons of bottled water (Not logged)
>* 50 tons of canned food (Not logged)
>In addition to the above, GoV announced that it was ready to disburse up to $5 million in
assistance if necessary. Also, the Venezuelan branch of the Red Cross opened an account
to collect funds from Venezuelans who wanted to contribute to hurricane relief effort.

DATE/CASE 10: 26 OCT 2006 200503991 -UNCLASSIFIED
"'- .
LtNCLASSIFIED D03S-
'Oliva, Amber M
From: CMS TaskForce1-Director RELEASED IN FULL
To: SES-O_CMS
SUbject: FW: Venezuelan Generators
From: US Dos[SMTP:TRAVELINGLINE@¥AHOO.COM]
Sent: Thursday, September 15, 2005 4:51:05 PM
To: CMS TaskForce1-Director; TaskForce-1
Subject: Fwd: RE: Venezuelan Generators
"Acree, John" cjacree@ofda.net> wrote:
Subject: RE: Venezuelan Generators

Date: Thu, 15 Sep 2005 16: 23: 08 ·-0400
From: "Acree, John" cjacree@ofda.net>
To: "Montz, Cindy" cCMontz@OHSEP.Louisiana.gov>,
ctravelingline@yahoo.com>
Cindy - Thank you very much for your timely response. We did learn the following.
Specs of each generator (18 total):
813 KVA
650 KW
3-phase
1800 rpm
60 hz
120/227 v
2134 amp
approx. 6 meters 10ng2.5 meters high
2.3 meters wide
15 tons each.
This information came from CITGO's offices in Houston.
CITGO CEO Felix Rodriguez stated that transportation is an issue due to FAA
restrictions on venezuelan planes.
Please keep us posted. Thanks.
John
From: Montz, Cindy [mailto:CMontz@OHSEP.Louisiana.gov]

Sent: Thu 9/15/2005 3:30 PM
To: Acree, JohnSubject: RE: Venezuelan Generators
John,
The offer of generators is getting complicated. One of our staff judge

advocates is now speaking with Andy Kopplin of the governor's office.

DATE/CASE ID: 28 MAR 2007 200503991
-UNCLASSIFIED
UNciJAsSIFIED
I have received probably about 25 calls ...frOm people connected in one way
or another with this offer. It has be~R.lmpossible to determine exactly
what they are offering as far as the generators go. About an hour ago,
I received a call from the secretary of the vice-president of CITGO and
was told the VP was boarding a plane to Baton Rouge to finalize this
offer. That's when the governor's office became involved.
I will let you know whatever I can find out.
Cindy
-----Oiiginal Message----- .
From: Acree, John [mailto:jacree@ofda.net]
Sent: Thursday, September IS, 2005 12:31 PM
To: Montz, Cindy
Cc: Chapman, Laura
Subject: Venezuelan Generators
Cindy: Do you have any further information regarding the generator offer!
from the Venezuelan Government to the State of Louisiana? If you can,
please give me a call .in order that we can report to Washington.
Thank you very much
John Acree
Do You Yahoo!?
Tired ofspam? Yahool Mail has the best spam protection around http://mail.yahoo.com
2
.UNCLASSIFIED
~'> r, • ...
uNCLASSIFIED
2) Has the USG spoken/advised State (Mississippi. Louisiana) governments on how to handle the Venezuela offer?
Tks-
Denny
I
I
UNCLASSIFIED
UNCLASSIFIED
Williams, Devin M
From: CMS TaskForce1 N

Tuesday, September 13, 20057:06 PM
RELEASED IN FULL
Sent:
To: TaskForce-1
Cc: TaskForce-1
Subject: FROM THE VENEZUELA DESK - SUMMARY OF OFFERS OF ASSISTANCE FROM
VENEZUELA
* $1 million in cash' to be donated by CITGO (LOGGED)

* 120 specialists with rescue and first aid equipment (LOGGED)
* 2 rapid deployment mobile hospital units to attend 150 persons each (LOGGED)
* 18 power generation plants with 850 KW each (LOGGED)
* 10 water purification plants (Not logged)
* 20 tons of bottled water (Not logged)
* 50 tons of canned food (Not logged)
In addition to the above, GoV announced that it was ready to disburse up to $5 million in
assistance if necessary. Also, the Venezuelan branch of the Red Cross opened an account
to collect funds from Venezuelans who wanted to contribute to hurricane relief effort.

8
DATE/CASE 10: 20 NOV 2006 200503991
UNCLASSIFIED
UNCLASSIFIED
Oliva, Amber M
From: CMS TaskForce 1N RELEASED IN FULL
To: CMS TaskForce1-Director; Cintron, Josephine
Cc: TaskForce-1; Friedman, Bruce W; Cue, Lourdes C; SES-O CMS; TaskForce-1
Subject: RE: Venezuela Generators -
In response to your question:
The Venezuela desk asked us to find out about CITGO donating generators directly to State
of Louisiana? I spoke to John ???, USAID liaison in Baton Rouge (225-258-2431). He
provided contact info for Cindy Montz (225) 925-7322 Crnontz@ohsep.louisiana.gov who has
indicated that the State of Louisiana could use generators and would be willing to talk
about such an offer. FEMA was unaware of this offer as of yesterday. I have passed this
information to Bruce Friedman on Venezuela desk.
The email from the Yahoo! address listed below belongs to Ambassador Sullivan's State
Department - "South" team in Baton Rouge.
Alicia Edwards
WHA Action Officer
Task Force 1
From: CMS TaskForce1-Director
To: CMS TaskForce1Ni Cintron, Josephine
Cc: TaskForce-I; Friedman, Bruce W; Cue, Lourdes C;SES-O CMS
All, what is this in reference to.
~----Original Message-----
Sent: Monday, September 12, 2005 ·10:25 PM
To: Cintron, Josephine
Cc: TaskForce-l
Jo,
Can you help us determine where the email originated?TRAVELINGLlNE@YAHOO.COM
We're trying to get a couple of messages restored or resent but can't reach
them ...
To: 'US Dos I
Cc: TaskForce-l

DATE/CASE ID: 27 OCT 2006 200503991
UNCLASSIFIED
UNCLASSIFIED
US Dos, Can you pIs resend the message, or paste in the message as text,
attachment won't open.
From: CMS TaskForcelL
To: TaskForce-l
From: US Dos[SMTP:TRAVELINGLINE@YAHOO.COM]
Sent: Monday, September 12, 2005 6:59:56 PM
To: CMS TaskForcelL
Subject: Fwd: FW: Venezuela Generators
Attached is the interim response on the inquiry received.
Do You Yahool?
Tired of spam? Yahoo! Mail has the best spam protection around
lJNCLASSIFIED
~_~ , ,,~ .... :t
UNCLASSIFIED

• 20 tons of bottled water RELEASED IN FlJLL
• 18power generationa plants with 850 KW each
• US$5 million if necessary \ .
• 1 million barrels of gas to Louisiana
donation)

• As of September 13, the Louisiana Office of Homeland Security and


assistance the
. American Red Cross, state and local. authorities in Louisiana and

DATE/CASE ID: 10 OCT 2006 200503991 UNCLASSIFIED
UNCLASSIFIED



Has the U.S. advised the state of Louisiana on how to handle the offer?

Venezuelan offer.
UNCLASSIFIED
,,; ...... -..
.: UNCLASSIFIED
Oliva, Amber M
From: eMS TaskForce1 N
Sent: Thursday, September 15, 20056:05 PM
Cc: TaskForce-1 RELEASED IN FULL
Subject: FW: RE: Venezuelan Generators
Dennison - Here is the message that did not open.
DoS South said that "the generators are wanted hen!", but it is a transportation' issue
because of their size. The USG will most likely get involved. Other than that, there are
no other updates since this afternoon.
Blakeney Lowe
WHA Rep
TF2
From: US Dos [mailto:travelingline@yahoo.com]
Sent: Thursday, september 15, 2005 5:51 PM
To: CMS TaskForce1-Director; TaskForce-1
Subj ect: .Fwd: RE: Venezuelan Genera tors
"Acree, John" <:jacree@ofda.net> wrote:

. .
subject: RE: Venezuelan Generators

Date: Thu, 15 Sep 2005 16:23:08 -0400
From: "Acree, John" <jacree@ofda.net>
To: "Montz, Cindy" <:CMontz@()HSEP.Louisiana.gov>,
<travelingline@yahoo.com>
Specs of each generator (18 total):
813 IWA
650 KW
3-phase
1800 rpm
60 hz
120/227 v
2134 amp
approx. 6 meters 10ng2.5 meters high
2.3 meters wide
15 tons each.
CITGO CEO Felix Rodriguez stated that transportation is an issue due to FAA
restrictions on Venezuelan planes.
Please keep us posted. Thanks.
John

Sent: Thu 9/15/2005 3:30 PM
I ' .
UNITEiD
I
STATES iDEPARTMENT OF STATE 1
REVI~W AUTHORITY: FRANK TUMMINIA lTNCLASSIFIED
DATE/CASE 10: 10 OCT 2006 200503991
I
I
r • -i
I UNCLASSIFIED
I
John,/
I
I
The offer of generators is getting complicated. One of our staff judge
advodates is now speaking with Andy Kopplin of the governor's office . .
I haJe received probably about 25 calls from people connected in one way
or a~other with this offer. It has been impossible to determine exactly
what/they are offering as far as the generators go. About an hour ago,
offe~. That's when the governor's office became involved.
I .
I willI let you know whatever I can find out.
Cindy
I
---J-original Message-----
Fro~: Acree, John [mailto:jacree@ofda.net)
Sen~: Thursday, September 15, 2005 12:31 PM
To: IIMontz, Cindy
Cc: I Chapman, Laura
I
I
I
Cindy: Do you have any further information regarding the generator offerl
fro~ the Venezuelan Government to the State of Louisiana? If you can,
ple~se give me a call in order that we can report to Washington.
I
Thank you very much
JoJn Acree
Do You Yahoo!?
Tired of./spam? Yahoo! Mail has the best spam protection around
UNCLASSIFIED
UNCLASSIFIED
Choi, Martino I

Sent: Tuesday, September 13, 2005 4:57 PM RELEASED IN FULL
To: Echeverria, Cynthia C
Cc: TaskForce-1
Subject: FW: Venezuela - Attn: David Bendana
From: Danlelewskl, Julie C

Sent: Tuesday, september 13, 2005 4:51 PM
To: TaskForce-l
Cc: WHA-venezuela Desk Officers
SUbject: Venezuela - Attn: David Bendana
David,
As per our conversation, here's an overview of what Venezuela has promised so far. We have not heard of any additional
offers of assistance this week. .
The Venezuelans offered the State of Louisiana several items:

$1 million in cash to be donated by CITGO, 120 specialists with rescue and first aid equipment,
2 rapid deployment mobile hospital units to attend 150 persons each,
10 water purifying plants,
18 power generation plants with 850 KW each,
20 tons of bottled water,
50 tons of canned food
These items were listed in a letter from Amb. Alvarez to the Governor. Also, on Sunday, Sept. 4 Chavez said the GOV was
ready to disburse up to $5 million in assistance if necessary and said that arrangements had been made to send 1 million
barrels of gas to Louisiana. The additional oil shipments though are actual more of a business transaction than a
donation. Also, the Venezuelan branch of the Red Cross opened an account to collect funds from Venezuelans who
wanted to contribute to Hurricane relief efforts.
Let me know if you have any other questions.
Best,
Julie

REVIEW AUTHORITY: FRANK TUMMINIA 1
DATE/CASE 10: 11 SEP 2006 200503991
UNCLASSIFIED
UNCLASSIFIED
O'Herron, Petra C
. I

Sent: Tuesday, September 13, 2005 7:06 PM RELEASED TN FULL
To: TaskForce-1
Cc: TaskForce-1
SUbJect: FROM THE VENEZUELA DESK - SUMMARY OF OFFERS OF ASSISTANCE FROM
VENEZUELA '

•. 2 rapid deployment mobile hospital units to attend 150 persons each (LOGGED)
• 18 power-qeneration plants with 850 KW each (LOGGED)
In addition to the above, GoV announced that it was ready to disburse up to $5 rnjllionin assistance if necessary. Also,
to hurricane relief effort.

REVIEW AUTHORITY:,FRANK TUMMINIA
DATE/CASE In: 27 SEP 2006 20050;3991 UNCLASSIFIED -
... - - . 'UNCLASSIFIED RELEASED IN FULL
dw
.,..- .~
O'Herron, Petra C

Sent: Wednesday, September 21, 20054:33 PM
To: Whitaker, Kevin M; McCarthy, Deborah A(WHAlFO); Martinez, Eduardo J(WHAIEPSC)
Cc: Friedman, Bruce W(WHA); Cue, Lourdes C(WHAlAND); Harris, Michelle F(Main Stale)
Subject: RE: FROM THE VENEZUELA DESK - SUMMARY OF OFFERS OF ASSISTANCE FROM
VENEZUELA
See note on Classified side.
-----Ortglnal Message----,
sent: Tuesday, september 20, 2005 3:20 PM
To: McCarthy, Deborah A(wHA/FO); Martinez, Eduardo J(WHA/EPSC); Downes, Robert R
Cc: Friedman, Bruce W(WHA);cue, Lourdes CCWHA/AND); Harris, Michelle F(Main State)
Subject: RE: FROM THE VENEZUELA DESK - SUMMARY OF OFFERS OF ASSISTANCE FROM VENEZUELA
I'll ask POL to do the complete followup on this. The $1 million was upped to $5 million by Chavez, and he also added
a million extra barrels of gasoline (I believe). I do not know if either was actually delivered .
. Thanks for following up on the generators piece. We do not/not care what the answer is. We just want to give an
answer.
Robert, please follow up.

---Original Message---
From: McCarthy, Deborah A(WHA/FO)
To: Whitaker, Kevin M(Caracas); Martinez, Eduardo J
Cc: Friedman, Bruce W; Cue, Lourdes C; Harris, Michelle F
Subject: FW: FROM THE VENEZUELA DESK - SUMMARY OF OfFERSOF ASSISTANCE FROM VENEZUELA
Kevin, as a virtual working group we are trying to wrap up all outstanding offers of assistance and respond to
countries. We got offers from about 124 and pushed through some 90 responses last week.
Can the mission help on the following?
1) confirm that these are the outstanding offers and give us cable references if available - remember we are
reconstructing what task force did.
2) Confirm that the $1MM was given to us by CITGO? WE have it as a pledge. Note: Missions were
instructed not to accept cash to USG until it go chop from Task Force (now the virtual working group)
We are working on generators and with a final answer on that (in terms of possible acceptance of offer, NOT
working out of logistics) we will prepare overall cable saying we are happy to accept. Xxxx and have found that
we cannot usexxxxxxx. We want to do this asap working with Eduardo who is the pt person for WHA on this.
From: CMS TaskForcel-Director

sent:' Friday, September 16, 2005 7:03 PM
Cc: SES-O_CMS
Subject: FW: FROM THE VENEZUELA DESK - SUMMARY OF OFFERS OF ASSIsrA~CE FROM VENEZUELA
To: TaskForce-!
Cc: TaskForce-!
Subject: FROM THE VENEZUELA DESK - SUMMARY OF OFFERS OF ASSISTANCE FROM VENEZUELA
I
• $1 million in cash to be donated by CITGO (LOGGED) I

1
DATE/CASE [D: 07 SEP 2006 200503991 UNCLASSIFIED
-e-.
UNCLASSIFIED
• 18 power generation plants with 850 KW each (LOGGED)
• 10 water purification plants (Not logged)'
In addition to the above, GoV announced that it was ready to disburse up to $5 million in assistance if necessary.
Also, the Venezuelan branch of the Red Cross opened an account to collect funds from Venezuelans who wanted
to contribute to hurricane relief effort.
2
UNCLASSIFIED
" Page 1 of2
.'
O'Herron, Petra C i
From: US Dos [travelingline@yahoo.com]

Sent: Thursday, September 15. 2005 5:51 PM
To: eMS TaskForce1-Director; TaskForce-1
Subject: Fwd: RE: Venezuelan Generators
"Acree, John" <jacree@pfda.nef> wrote:
Subject: RE: Venezuelan Generators

Date: Thu, 15 Sep 2005 16:23:08 -0400
From: "Acree, John" <jacree@ofda.net>
To: "Montz, Cindy" <CMontz@OHSEP.Louisiana.gov>,
<travelingline@yahoo.com>
Specs ofeach generator (18 total):
813 KVA
650KW
3-phase
'1800 rpm
60 hz
120/227 v
2134 amp
,approx. 6 meters long2.5 meters high
2.3 meters wide
15 tons each.
CITGO CEO Felix Rodriguez stated that transportation is an issue due to FAA restrictions on
Venezuelan planes.
Please, keep us posted. Thanks.
John

Sent: Thu 9115120053:30 PM
John,
71712006
.... ", •• 1: . . . .
. Page 2 of2
The offer of generators is getting complicated. One of our staffjudge

advocates is now speaking with Andy Kopplin of the governor's office.
I have received probably about 25 calls from people connected in one way
or another with this offer. It has been impossible to determine exactly
what they are offering as far as the generators go. About an hour ago,
offer. That's when the governor's office became involved.
I will let you know whatever I can find out.
_Cindy.,...,_.,. .
-----Original Message-e-o-
From: Acree, John [mailto:jacree@ofda.riet]
Sent: Thursday, September 15,2005 12:31 PM
To: Montz, Cindy
Cc: Chapman, Laura
Cindy: Do you have any further information regarding the generator offer!
from the Venezuelan Government to the State of Louisiana? If you can,
please give me a call in order that we can report to Washington.
Thank you very much
John Acree
Do You Yahoo!?
Tired ofspam? Yahoo! Mail has the best spam protection around
7/7/2006
. ,.'
UNCLASSIFIED DS'lO
Oliva, Amber M
From: Chacon, Arnold A

Sent: Thursday, September 15. 2005 12:48 PM RELEASED IN FULL
To: Bass, John R (OPS) .
Cc: CMS TaskForce1-Director; SES-O CMS
Subject: RE: Congo Query - Venezuela -
Looks fine,'but begs the question of what exactly did Venezuela offer. Shouldn't we work
that into the response? :
!
To: Chacon, Arnold A
Cc: CMS TaskForce1-Director; SES-O CMS
Arnold -- a quick reality check on this, pIs. Following our briefing for SFRC staff
yesterday, we were asked to provide a couple of the staff more details on the offers from
Cuba and Venezuela. I plan to forward the attached, prepared by WHA, to H for onward
delivery to Senate staff, but want to make sure you/Harry are comfortable with that.
Thanks, J8
To: Bass, John R·(OPS)
Subj ect,: <;:o,ngF· Qt.:~ty -, Venezuela c ~;:: r.
..j Po .f:.t, ~~ :'~'\ t:l .
.
o'j
\
.
..J. '
,." .

DATE/CASE 10: 08 NOV 2006 200503991
UNCLASSIFIED
UNCLASSIFIED
Oliva, Amber M
DS\08
III'
From: eMS TaskForce1-Director

Sent: Friday, September 16, 2005 7:03 PM RELEASED IN FULL
Cc: SES-O_CMS
Subject: FW: FROM THE VENEZUELA DESK - SUMMARY OF OFFERS OF ASSISTANCE FROM
VENEZUELA
·-···Original Message···_·
From: CMSTas1cForcelN
Sent: TUesday, september 13, 2005 7: 06 PM
To: TaskForce-l
ce TaskForee-l
Subject: FROM THE VENEZUELA DESK· SUMMARY OF OFFERS OF ASSISTANCE FROM VENEZUELA

• 18power generation plants with 850 KW each (LOGGED)
In addition to the above, GoV announced that it was ready to disburse up to $5 million in assistance if necessary. Also,
to hurricane relief effort.
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENTOF STATE 1

DATE/CASE 10: 08 NOV 2006 200503991
UNCLASSIFIED
UNCLASSIFIED
Bentes, Julianna W
From: eMS TaskForce1-Director(S/ES-OITF)

Sent: Friday, September 16, 20056:20 PM
To: Katrina Working Group RELEASED IN FULL
Cc: SES-o eMS
SUbject: FW: WHA SITREP, 1500 Sep 16
sent: friday, September 16, 2005 3:05 PM·
To: TaskForee-l
Cc: Creamer, John S; TaskForce-l
Subject: WHASITREP, 1500 Sep 16
Katrina Task Force

9/J 6/05 - 1500 hrs
COL Michael R. Borders

WHA Action Officer
September 16, 2005
0700-1500
PRIORITY/HOT
Mexico: Offer of Mental Health Experts: One psychologist, Rosa Rodriguez Zubiate, was accepted. Cable is
outfor clearance: found on unc1ass side at I:/TFIIDOCS/CABLES/Acceptance cable-immediate-Mexico Sept
15.
-Action: OFDA asked that I hold on the cable. Allclearanced received except OFDA and DHHS.
-Action: Sent email to Tony Stint and DBSmith @DHHS 9/166:17 a.m. to ask about clearance status. Follow-
up OOB 9/16,
-Action: OPEN As of 1415 on 16 Sep still awaiting answerfrom OFDA/HHS
Colombia: Civil defense Personnel: four personnel will be accepted.

Cable is outfor clearance: found on unclass side at I:ffFI/DOCS/CABLES/Acceptance cable-immediate-
Colombia Sept 15.
-Action: OFDA (USAID) asked that I hold on the cable: all clearances have been received, but HHS
info/clearance is in question .
-Action: Sent email to Tony Stint 9/15 10,'36 p.m. 10 ask about clearance status (in COLfile)
-Action: OPEN As of 1415 on 16 Sep still awaiting answerfrom OFDA/HHS_
Trinidad & Tobago: Pledge to Charity: Embassy confirmed via email that T&T pledged $2 million on 09/14
at 09: 13. Email sent to WHAICAR to request cable from Port ofSpain when pledge is fulfilled. (04:] 5)
-Action: Waiting for response, follow up with desk 9/16 a.m.
-Action: l.!-I/ndii]g Cable should be comingfrom post today,' Tim Swanson has drafted it already.
Brazil: Offer 09/09/05: WHAIBSC confirmed offer on 09/14 via email at J0: 14. Per matrix, FEMA needs to
vet.
9/15 - OFDA rep confirmed usa will not/not accept offer.
REVIEW AUTHORITY: FRANK TUMMINIA T ,t,. TCLASSIFIED
DATE/CASE In: 15 AUG ,2006 200503991 U 1'1
UNCLASSIFIED
Col Pilcher of S is double-checking with Northcom on offer of National Guard assistance.
-Action: FEMA still needs to vet, follow up\9/16
-Action: Closet/. Col Pilcher indicated that NORTHCOM would not accept assistance, Sent to logger to close
out. Desk and embassy cc 'ed.
Jamaica: Private donations: Question from post on allowing bank to collect donations then deposit with Emb
cashier. E-mail question went to Donna Bordley.
-Action: Still waitingfor Donna Bordley (RM). Follow-up w/Rbd rep 9/16 a.m.
-Action: Clo.\'ed. Instructed post to have GOJ make donations via,the Red Cross, Sent to logger, desk and post.
Honduras: Confirm GOH assistance was declined earlier. OFDA rep has confirmed USG will not accept offers
from gov't or manufacturing assoc. ,
-Action: Pending Still waitingfor response ifwater or partial acceptance is possible; OFDA asked againfor
response ,
-Action: Sent to Matrix keepers. Regarding the private-to-Gov of Honduras. Change the private Honduras
donation to reflect that the donation is to be given to the GOH for transport to the U.S. via cargo ship per
Mandojana e-mail dated 15 Sep, 5:17PM. This is important because the President of Honduras will be
travelling to New Orleans. ' .
Cuba: Dennison Offut ofOp Center tasks a reply to question John Bass'took away from a Hill briefing on the
content of CubanNenezuelan offers of assistance, our responses to these offers, and about any advice we've
given to Louisiana and Mississippi on Venezuela's offer to these states.
-Action: Denny Offutt ofCMS has asked Cuba desk to re-work their submission, due at 1800 hrs 9/15.
-Action: !~mdi1J.g See Cuba/Ven folder for still 'in-clearance talking points
Venezuela: Duty officer at Embassy Caracas called with message from DCM: latter had beencontacted by
Minister of Interior saying Venezuela was ready to grant "request" of 16 850 kw generators; it could ship 2 in
one of its own planes, but would need USG air assets to ship the rest. Minister did not say which USG or state
agency had made request., WHA Action officer checked matrix; GOV offer of generators was registered 9/13, '
listed as FEMA vetting pending. 1 informed Embassy duty offer 10 sit on this request; nothing could be done
until FEMA accepted or declined the Venezuelan offer. Duty officer thought GOV was playing with us by
making multiple offers and then pressing for immediate shipment. (23:05)
-Action: Provided D OjJUII w/Venezuela update (generators- spoke to DoS-South to confirm) andforwarded
Ven. Response (Cong. Inquiry)
-Action: Pending See Cuba/Ven folder for still in-clearance talking points
Guyana- Cable accepting Guyana's offer of cash is drafted, still waiting for post to send cable with
governments offer modifications (9/15 11:00 p.m.) .
Action: Closed. Post cable indicated thai GOG will send donations to the American Red Cross and appropriate
NGO's. Cable sent via e-mail for clearance. Cable indicates thanks for the donation.
Panama: 9/16 a.m. shift needs to contact Red Cross to follow up on in-kind donations from a Panama radio
station (see message from post in Panama folder); sent message to Panama on status of inquiry.
-Action: Closed. Instructed post to put this private agency in touch with America's Second Harvest at
(800)-771-2303. American Red Cross cannot accept in-king donations. Sent to logger
Panama: 9/15, Panamanian Embassy Officer Pillar Ortega (202.483.1407) asked for assistance in locating 37
missing Panamanians across the three affected states.
-Action: CA has been informed and has the lead on this issue. Check in with CA 9/16 a.m. to ascertain
progress.
lTNCL~SSIFIED
.
'.
UNCLASSIFIED WHA-
·RELEASED IN PART
Katrina Task Force
B6
9116/05 -1800 hrs
Moises Behar
WHA Action Officer
September 16, 2005
1500·1800
PRIORITYIHOT
Mexico: Offer of Mental Health Experts: One psychologist, Rosa Rodriguez Zubiate,
was accepted. Cable is out for clearance: found on unclass side at
I:(fF1IDOCS/CABLES/Acceptance cable-immediate-Mexico Sept 15.
-Action: OPEN DHHS cleared cable. Received and entered DBBS pac information
(David Smith, Office ofGlobal Affairs) into the cable. Cable should go to Charles Currie
(SAMBSA) for HBS Clearance.
Colombia: Civil defense personnel: four personnel will be accepted.

Cable is out for clearance: found on unc1ass side at I:rrFIIDOCS/CABLES/Acceptance
cable-immediate-Colombia Sept 15.
-Action: OPEN DHHS cleared cable. _Received missing DHBS pac information
(David Smith, Office ofGlobal Affairs) and incorporated it into the cable. Cable should
go to Charles Currie (SAMHSA) for BBS Clearance.
Trinidad & Tobago: Pledge to Charity: Embassy confirmed via email that T&T
pledged $2 million on 09/14 at 09:13. Email sent to WHAICAR to request cable from
Port of Spain when pledge is fulfilled. (04: 15)
-Action: Closed Cable sent out.
Brazil: Offer 09/09/05: WHAlBSC confmned offer on 0911;4 via email at 10: 14. Per
matrix, FEMA needs to vet.
9/15 - OFDA rep confirmed USG will not/not accept offer.
Col Pilcher of S is double-checking with Northcom on offer of National Guard assistance.
-Action: FEMA still needs to vet, follow up 9//6 .
-Action: Closed. Col Pilcher indicated that NORTHCOM would not accept assistance.
Sent to logger to close out. Desk and embassy cc 'ed. '
Jamaica: Private donations: Question from post on allowing bank to collect donations
then deposit with Emb cashier. E-mail question went to Donna Bordley.
-Action: Still waiting for Donna Bordley (RM). Follow-up w/RM rep 9/16 a.m.
-Action: Closed. Instructed post to have GOJ make donations via the Red Cross. Sent to
logger, desk andpost.

DATE/CASE ID: 13 SEP 2006 200503991
UNCLASSIFIED
lJNCLASSIFIED
Honduras: Confirm GOH assistance was declined earlier; OFDA rep has confirmed
usa will not accept offers from gov't or manufacturing assoc.
-Action: Pending Still waitingfor response ifwater or partial acceptance is possible;
OFDA asked again for response
-Action: Sent to Matrix keepers. Regarding the private-to-Gov of Honduras. Change the
private Honduras donation to reflect that the donation is to be given to the GOH for
transport to the U.S. via cargo ship per Mandojana e-mail dated 15 Sep, 5:17PM. This is
important because the President of Honduras will be travelling to Louisiana (Kenner) per
Mandojana email dated 16 Sep, 5:10 PM.
Cuba: Dennison Offut of Op Center tasks a reply to question John Bass took away from
a Hill briefing on the content of CubanIVenezuelan offers of assistance, our responses to
these offers, and about any advice we've given to Louisiana and Mississippi on
Venezuela's offer to these states.
-Action: Denny Offutt of CMS has asked Cuba desk to re-work their submission, due at
1800 hrs 9/15.
-Action: Pending See CubalVen folder for still in-elearance talking points
Venezuela: Duty officer at Embassy Caracas called with message from DCM: latter had
been contacted by Minister ofInterior saying Venezuela was ready to grant ''request'' of
16 850 kw generators; it could ship 2 in one of its own planes, but would need USG air
assets to ship the rest. Minister did not say which USG or state agency had made request.
WHA Action officer checked matrix; GOV offer of generators was registered 9/13, listed
as FEMA vetting pending. I informed Embassy duty offer to sit on this request; nothing
could be done until FEMA accepted or declined the Venezuelan offer. Duty officer
thought GOV was playing with us by making multiple offers and then pressing for
immediate shipment. (23 :05)
-Action: Provided D Offutt w/Venezuela update (generators- spoke to DoS-South to
confirm) andforwarded Yen. Response (Cong. Inquiry)
-Action: Pending See CubalVen folder for still in-clearance talking points
Guyana- Cable accepting Guyana's offer of cash is drafted, still waiting for post to send
cable with governments offer modifications (9/15 11:00 p.m.) .
Action: Closed. Post cable indicated that GOG will send donations to the American Red
Cross and appropriate NGO 's. Cable sent via e-mailfor clearance. Cable indicates
thanks for the donation.
Panama: 9/16 a.m. shift needs to contact Red Cross to follow up on in-kind donations
from a Panama radio station (see message from post in Panama folder); sent message to
Panama on status of inquiry.
-Action: Closed. Instructed post to put this private agency in touch with America's
Second Harvest at (800)-77 J-2303. American Red Cross cannot accept in-king
donations. Sent to logger
UNCLASSIFIED
UNCLASSIFIED
Panama: 9/15,1 ~sked for B

assistance in locatmg 37 mIssing Panamamans across the thfee affected states. r
-Action: CA has been informed and has the lead on this issue. Check in with CA 9/16 a.m.
to ascertain progress.
-Action.Closed CA now has this for action. Appears to be some confusion within the
Panamanian embassy. CA rep Kim Christman willfollow up. Sent to logger and closed
Costa Rita: Pending 9116 p.m. shift sent note to TF 3 to update matrix regarding sugar
offer. EB indicates offer will not be accepted. No further action at this time. Old e-mail
in folder. Pending OFDA reports that nurse team to be denied. Contacted Brian
Simmons at post and informed him that cable with decision should be sent next week.
UNCLASSIFIED
UNCLASSIFIED
O'Herron, Petra C
From: . CMS TaskForce1 N
Sent: Wednesday, September 14, 2005 6:03 PM RELEASED IN FULL
To: Cue, Lourdes C; Miele, Wayne E; Friedman, Bruce W
Cc: TaskForce-1
Subject: FW: Follow-up to questions from Senate Staffers
Could you folks help draft the reply to this question about Venezuela and Cuba? Thanks.
Mike Bosshart
WHA Action Officer
Task Force 1
--Qriginal Message--
From: Benson, JamesH
Sent: Wednesday. September 14, 2005 5:58 PM
To: CMS TaskForce1N
SUbJect: FW: Follow-up to questions from senate Staffers
Mike, Here is what I sent Denny Offut.
Jim Benson
Deputy Director
WHAlPPC
Voice: (202) 647-9964 Fax: (202) 736-7450
From: Benson, James H

sent: Wednesday. September 14, 2005 5:08 PM
Subject: RE: Follow-up to questions from SenateStaffers
Denny, By and large we have been relying on the Task Force to tell us what the decisions are vis a vis all of the offers,
including those of Cuba and Venezuela. The Cuba offer has been neither accepted nor rejected. The Venezuela offer of
a $1 million donation to the Red Cross has been accepted, though I do not know if we can confirm that they carriedit out.
As for the rest, I do not have any further information beyond that contained in the matrix. It is my understanding that we
did/did accept the offers from both in principal along with all of the others. I have not seen any evidence that we have said
anything publicly about either offer, but the following guidance was drafted and cleared for use. I have not seen that it has
been employed yet: .
9-9 Katrina
update.doc
2. I understand the desk has been in contact with the state governments regarding the offers, but rrn not sure you could
characterize their discussions as "advice." Bruce Friedman (7-3360) suggested you give him a call to clarify the
Venezuela issues.
Hope this helps.
Jim Benson
Deputy Director
WHAlPPC
Voice: (202) 647-9954 Fax: (202) 736-7450

sent: Wednesday, september 14, 20054:00 PM
To: Benson, James H; TaskForce-l

REVIEW AUTHORITY: FRANK TUMMINIA'
DATE/CASE ID: 26 SEP 2006 200503991 . UNCLASSIFIED
UNCLASSIFIED
UNCLASSIFIED 2
OFFERS OF FOREIGN ASSISTANCE
2. (U) Currently 60 Foreign Missions have offered support

and assistance in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina.
Offers range from cash to support personnel to airplanes
and ships. Azerbaijan offered $500,000 in cash support.
Jordan offered two field hospitals .. Slovenia offered
water pumps, blankets, generators and medicine. A German
military aircraft is scheduled to arrive in Pensacola, ·FL
to deliver an unexpected gift of 10.5 metric tons of Meals
Ready to Eat (MREs). Swedish electronics company Erickson
offered telecommunications equipment in Houston.
(TaskForce-Overseas Missions telcons, e-mails, cables)
STATE DEPARTMENT PARTICIPATION
3. (U) The Executive Secretary briefed the diplomatic

'community at Main State and provided information on
Hurricane victim support at the Astrodome and in
additional locations in San Antonio and Dallas. The
Department has communicated with 54 of the 85 U.S.
government personnel at the New Or Le arra PC3.s.Ejport Agency.
The Federal Government has declared the Passport Agency a
"national security site," which entItles it to increased
protection and' gains the Department access to its
controlled inventory. M/FLO'was able to use satellite
images to locate the house of a Department employee in New
Orleans and verify that the house was still standing and
unaffected by the flooding. The Office of Casualty
Assistance is using its skills bank to contact hundreds of
Department employees to arrange for volunteers for a
Federal Government team to go to the disaster area this
weekend and provide support. (TaskForce-OS telcons, CA,
OCA) .
4. MINIMIZE CON~IDERED.
yy
SECDEF WASHINGTON DC IMMEDIATE

RUEKJCS/SECDEF WASHINGTON DC//USD:SOLIC// IMMEDIATE
RHBVAKS/COMFIFTHFLT IMMEDIATE
RHBVQJQ/COMSIXTHFLT IMMEDIATE
UNCLASSIFIED
UNCLASSIFIED

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Related Documents - CREW: Department of State: Regarding International Assistance Offers After Hurricane Katrina: Venezuela Assistance

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ce: CMS'~askForcel.D1rector;-Bassi John R (o"WN~,M~~!

}'s; Brown, Bruce

JimlWHA rep on TF-

Katrina Task Force

Colombia: Civil defense personnel: four personnel will be accepted.

From: Gisvold, Lisa C RELEASED IN PART

More guidance to field.

SUBJECT: HURRICANE KATRINA, ~ECOGNIZING FOREIGN ASSISTANCE

REF: STATE 163279

1. As foreign governments, individuals and organizations continue to provide assistance

5. SUMMARY OF FOREIGN OFFERS ACCEPTED OR PLAN TO ACCEPT

COUNTRY FOREIGN OFFERS

From: Bass, John R (OPS)(S/ES-O)

From: Cronin, Susan P.

Please advise ASAP.

On acknowledgement of Venezuela, I trust NSC will decide.

From: Garza, Daniel [mailtD:DanieLGarza@who.eop.gov]

From: Dean, Paul

eMS SPOT REPORT: HURRICANE KATRINA

INQUIRIES FROM FOREIGN MISSIONS

SUBJECT: GOV FOLLOW-UP ON GENERATORS OFFERED FOR KATRINA RELIEF EFFORTS

REF: SECSTATE 169494

1. (U) Request for Guidance" see paragraph six.

3. (U) At 2230 on 14 ; Dr Jessi Chacon contacted the

4'. (SBU) Caracas Embas ified the State Cps Center at

5. (U) Embassy underst authorities will assesses the

-PAGE 01 CARACA 02806 151750Z

@INFO: CMS(OO) DSCC(OO) G(OO) IRM(OO) PA(OO)

INFO LOG-OO NP-OO AID-DO CIAB-OO CPR-OO INL-OO DODE-OO·

UNCLAS CARACAS 002806

NSC FOR CBARTON

E.O. 12958: N/A

S, D, P, E, T, M, G, R, TFUS01, S/ES-0-2, S/ES-3,

SENSITIVE, INFORM CONSULS

E.O. -12958: N/A

TAGS: PREL, PINS, AEMR, MARR, CASC, US,. KHLS

Sensitive But Unclassified Telegram TBxt_C English,

(U) A total of 118 countries and 12 international

ACCEPTANCES OF OFFERS OF ASSISTANCE

(U) The United States has accepted offers of assistance

UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF STATE

(U) Germany's Ambassador to the United States wolfgang

(SBU) The Consuls General of Costa Rica, the Dominican

(SBU) Pakistan has offered more than 50 tons of tents,

UPDATE ON REVIEW PROCESS

(U) FEMA, USAID/OFDA and TF Coordinator will hold a

SECDEF WASHINGTON DC.IMMEDIATE

RHMFISS/NGA HQ BETHESDA MD IMMEDIATE

In response to your question:

WHA Action Officer

All, 'what is this in reference to.

Can you help us determine where the email originated?TRAVELINGLINE@YAHOO.COM

UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF STATE 1

Attached is the interim response on the inquiry received.

• ,,' r ,~, ,,.

> ---~-Original Message-~---

UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF STATE

From: CMS TaskForce1N

Follow Up Flag: For Your Information

LINITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF STATE

Venezuela Katrina Assistance

What has Venezuela offered?

What is the status ofVe'n~zue"a?:soffers of assistance?"

What has the U.S. said publicly about the offers?

Cc: Harris, Mlc:helle Fil_~ ~ B6