John Kerry
John KerryReuters

US Secretary of State John Kerry has released an official response to the devastating earthquake in Nepal on Sunday, as the death toll approaches 2,000. 

"I join the people of the United States in expressing our deepest condolences to all of those affected by today's earthquake in Nepal, including the families of those who died in Nepal, India, and Bangladesh," Kerry said. "We are working closely with the government of Nepal to provide assistance and support."

"Ambassador Bodde has issued a disaster declaration in order to immediately release an initial $1 million for humanitarian assistance," he elaborated. 

"USAID is preparing to deploy a Disaster Assistance Response Team and is activating an Urban Search and Rescue Team to accompany disaster experts and assist with assessments of the situation."

"To the people in Nepal and the region affected by this tragedy: we send our heartfelt sympathies," he concluded. "The United States stands with you during this difficult time." 

The US government has already sent one million dollars in aid, and will be dispatching a disaster relief team.

US President Barack Obama has not yet released a statement.