Biden offered help to Turkey and Syria after earthquakes that left thousands dead

President Joe Biden offered all necessary assistance to Syria and Turkey after severe earthquakes struck several countries.

“I am deeply saddened by the loss of life and devastation caused by the earthquake in Turkey and Syria. I have instructed my team to continue to closely monitor the situation in coordination with Turkey and provide all necessary assistance,” the president said in a message on social networks.

I am deeply saddened by the loss of life and devastation caused by the earthquake in Turkiye and Syria. I have directed my team to continue to closely monitor the situation in coordination with Turkiye and provide any and all needed assistance.

— President Biden (@POTUS) February 6, 2023

The 7.8 earthquake hit Turkey and Syria in the early hours of Monday morning, followed by another 7.5 quake that left thousands dead and missing in the two countries.

For his part, Secretary of State Antony Blinken said in a statement that assistance for Turkey is already underway.

While U.S. humanitarian organizations are responding to the effects of the earthquakes across the country.

“We are determined to do everything we can to help those affected by these earthquakes in the days, weeks and months ahead,” he said.

Blinken also assured that the U.S. is exploring options for response and directed the team to stay in contact with allies in Turkey and humanitarian partners to respond to humanitarian needs in the region.

Jake Sullivan issued another statement later to declare that the U.S. stands ready to offer needed assistance.

“President Biden directed the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) and other federal government partners to assess U.S. response options to help those most affected. We will continue to closely monitor the situation in coordination with the government of Turkey,” he commented.