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U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris has canceled her planned trip to Singapore, Bahrain, and Germany due to the devastating wildfires ravaging California, the White House announced Thursday. President Joe Biden similarly canceled a scheduled visit to Italy, where he was set to meet with Pope Francis, Italian President Sergio Mattarella, and Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni.
The historic wildfires in Los Angeles have claimed five lives, forced the evacuation of 180,000 residents, and consumed over 31,000 acres. Harris, a native of California, made the decision to remain in the U.S. as the state grapples with one of the worst natural disasters in its history. The trip, initially planned as her last international visit before leaving office on January 20, will no longer take place.
President Biden, who has declared a major disaster in California, met with top administration officials Thursday to coordinate federal relief efforts. His canceled trip highlights the administration’s focus on responding to the crisis.
The wildfires, fueled by severe drought and high winds, have overwhelmed local emergency services, prompting federal assistance to support ongoing rescue and recovery operations. As the fires continue to spread, efforts are underway to contain the damage and provide aid to affected communities.
The cancellation of these trips underscores the administration’s commitment to addressing the escalating climate-related emergencies at home. Both leaders have pledged to prioritize the safety and well-being of Californians during this critical time.
The devastating impact of the Los Angeles wildfires serves as a stark reminder of the growing challenges posed by climate change and the urgent need for comprehensive action to mitigate its effects.
