The United States sends to Russia firefighting equipment worth some $4.5 million to help combating raging wildfires in the country that "is home to nearly one fourth of the world's forests," the U.S. Department of State said.
A scorching heat wave has gripped much of European Russia since mid-June, which coupled with the worst drought since the 1970s has made the countryside particularly susceptible to wildfires.
"The United States today began deliveries of firefighting equipment valued at approximately $2.5 million to bolster Russia's fire suppression efforts. These deliveries will include water tanks, pumps, hand tools, fire-protective clothing, and medical kits," Philip Crowley, department's secretary of state said in a statement.
"The United States also contributed $50,000 to support the operations of the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) to provide relief items, including blankets, bedding, and food parcels, for victims. The State of California has generously contributed additional supplies of fire-protective clothing. Total overall U.S. support for this effort is estimated to be valued at $4.5 million," he continued.
Foreign countries have sent more than 550 foreign firefighters and 100 units of machinery, including six planes and seven helicopters, to help Russia extinguish wildfires raging across the country due to abnormal heat and drought.
"The United States stands with the people of Russia as they fight to contain the destructive spread of wildfires, which have taken lives and displaced many from their homes. We are taking action to support the heroic efforts of Russian firefighters and emergency responders as they seek to bring these fires under control," Crowley said in his statement.
Thousands of emergency workers, military personnel and volunteers have been working round the clock for over a month to fight fires in 22 Russian regions, which have so far killed more than 50 people and left over 3,500 homeless. The immediate economic cost of the fires has been estimated at $15 billion.
WASHINGTON, August 14 (RIA Novosti)
