Official announcements from the U.S. government or relevant agencies

Biden's $500 Million Ukraine Aid Amid California Wildfires Sparks Criticism

Jan 8, 2025, 05:09 PM

Amid devastating wildfires in California, President Joe Biden has announced an additional $500 million in aid to Ukraine, sparking criticism from various quarters. The Los Angeles County Fire Department (LACoFD) and other U.S. fire departments have previously sent surplus firefighting equipment, including fire engines and ambulances, to Ukraine. Critics argue that this has left U.S. first responders under-resourced during natural disasters, such as the current wildfires in California, which have resulted in significant damage and loss of life. The Eaton Fire in Altadena has claimed at least two lives, destroyed around 100 structures, and consumed 2,227 acres, while the Palisades Fire in Los Angeles County has devastated approximately 1,000 structures and burned 5,000 acres. Both fires remain at zero percent containment, exacerbating the situation as residents face evacuation orders and insufficient firefighting resources. Previously, the U.S. had sent $250 billion to Ukraine, and USAID provided gear to 16 Ukrainian fire departments, while California's fire needs have been overlooked.