Flooding in the Balkans

Flooding in the Balkans

Press Statement
Jen Psaki
Department Spokesperson
Washington, DC
May 19, 2014

The United States wishes to express its condolences to all those in Bosnia and Herzegovina, Serbia, and Croatia who have suffered as a result of the devastating flooding over the past several days. We extend our readiness to assist the governments and people of each of these countries as they mourn the dead, treat the injured, and address the extensive losses and damage caused by this natural disaster.

We continue to monitor the ongoing situation and are working closely with local authorities, nongovernmental relief organizations, and international donors to coordinate immediate humanitarian assistance to the people and communities most affected. Our embassies in Bosnia and Herzegovina and Serbia set in motion processes that will provide additional funds and resources to help deal with the disaster. USAID’s Office of U.S. Foreign Disaster Assistance has deployed humanitarian experts to Serbia and Bosnia and Herzegovina to assist with response efforts. In addition, USAID is providing search and rescue boats to Bosnia and Herzegovina, and the Department of Defense is providing supplies to people affected by the flooding, including: cots, blankets, water and fuel cans, portable kitchen sets, space heaters, generators, and water pumps.

The United States stands ready to provide further assistance as additional needs are identified. In this time of need, we join together with the people of Bosnia and Herzegovina, Serbia, and Croatia as they respond to these unprecedented floods, and we will stand with them as they begin to recover and rebuild.

ENDS

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