Official U.S. government budget reports and major news outlets

Biden Sends $500 Million More to Ukraine, Totaling $250 Billion, Amid California Wildfires Destroying 1,000 Homes

Jan 8, 2025, 06:56 PM

Amidst devastating wildfires in California that have destroyed over 1,000 structures and burned more than 5,000 acres, President Joe Biden announced an additional $500 million in military aid to Ukraine. The fires have caused power outages for over 150,000 homes, with winds reaching 60-100 mph worsening the situation. Critics have pointed out that while California is facing significant disaster, the administration is allocating substantial funds overseas, with total aid to Ukraine reportedly reaching $250 billion. Concerns have been raised about domestic needs being overshadowed by foreign commitments, particularly as USAID has provided gear and rescue tools to 16 Ukrainian fire departments, and the Los Angeles Fire Department previously sent firefighting equipment to Ukraine. Meanwhile, some reports indicate California is lacking sufficient water resources to combat the fires.