Local firefighters and first responders have gotten assistance from all around the world in the wake of various wildfires that have burned tens of thousands of acres and killed at least two dozen people in Los Angeles County.
While other crews from Canada were reportedly on their way, and Mexican firefighters arrived over the weekend to help local crews contain the Eaton Fire and the Palisades Fire, which were still burning in various parts of the county, the United States received an offer for assistance from all the way in Eastern Europe.
Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelenskyy posted a message on X that read, “Today, I instructed Ukraine’s Minister of Internal Affairs and our diplomats to prepare for the possible participation of our rescuers in combating the wildfires in California.” “Ukraines can help Americans save lives in that very challenging scenario. We have offered our help to the American side through the appropriate channels, and this is presently being arranged. We already have 150 of our firefighters ready.
In order to help local law enforcement enforce curfews and reduce the risk of looting, about 1,500 California National Guard personnel have already been sent to Los Angeles. On Sunday, they responded to Zelenskyy’s offer on X.
“Ukraine’s offer of support to California during these devastating wildfires is nothing short of extraordinary,” reported on X. “The readiness of 150 Ukrainian firefighters under President Zelenskyy’s direction is evidence of the strength of international collaborations. @TheCalGuard is honored to have collaborated with Ukraine for more than 30 years via the State Partnership Program. We are stronger when we stand together.
Although personnel have started to make headway on the two fires, there are still worries that the flames may get worse or that new fires may start as a result of another strong windstorm that is closing in on the area.
Crews from New Mexico, Nevada, Utah, Oregon, Arizona, and Washington have joined the fighting in Southern California, joining thousands of reinforcements from across the Western United States.