U.S. President Joe Biden has canceled his upcoming trip to Italy, originally scheduled for January 9-12, due to the escalating wildfires in California. The decision comes as the fires continue to wreak havoc around Los Angeles and have spread into the Hollywood Hills, causing significant loss of life and property.
At least five people have died as a result of the wildfires, which have destroyed hundreds of homes and stretched firefighting resources and water supplies to their limits. The federal government is closely monitoring the situation, with President Biden himself leading the response efforts.
The White House announced that Biden's trip was intended to include meetings with Pope Francis, Italian President Sergio Mattarella, and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni. However, the pressing need to address the crisis in California took precedence.
“After returning this evening from Los Angeles, where earlier today he had met with police, fire and emergency personnel fighting the historic fires raging in the area and approved a Major Disaster declaration for California, President Biden made the decision to cancel his upcoming trip to Italy to remain focused on directing the full federal response in the days ahead,” said a statement from The White House.
The wildfires have caused unprecedented destruction, displacing hundreds of families and necessitating extensive firefighting efforts. Local emergency services are overwhelmed, reflecting the urgent need for federal assistance and resources. The situation in California has prompted an immediate response from federal agencies to provide support to those affected.
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