Trump speaks with Mexican president after deadly earthquake

by Jordan Fabian - 09/20/17 12:33 PM ET

President Trump on Wednesday spoke by phone with Mexican President Enrique Peña Nieto as Mexico recovers from a powerful earthquake that hit the previous day.

Trump offered search-and-rescue assistance to Mexican authorities and said teams are already on the way, according to the White House.

“The president also pledged to continue close coordination with Mexico as the two countries respond to the recent earthquakes and hurricanes,” the White House said in a statement.

The call came one day after a 7.1 magnitude earthquake rocked Mexico City and the surrounding area, reportedly killing at least 225 people.

{mosads}Mexican authorities were irked that Trump did not immediately contact Peña Nieto earlier this month after the country suffered an 8.1 magnitude earthquake, the second strongest recorded in its history.

Trump later blamed the six-day delay on poor cellphone reception in Mexico.

The president has offered a quick response following the earthquake this week.

“God bless the people of Mexico City. We are with you and will be there for you,” Trump tweeted Tuesday.

—Updated at 4:47 p.m.

Tags Enrique Pena Nieto Mexico Mexico City