President Biden has cancelled his planned trip to Italy this week to focus on the ongoing wildfires in Los Angeles. The White House announced the decision after the president returned from Los Angeles on Wednesday, where he met with first responders and surveyed the damage caused by the fires.
The president has approved a major disaster declaration for Los Angeles County, which will make federal resources available to those affected by the fires. He has also pledged the full support of the federal government in helping to contain the fires and rebuild the affected areas.
The president's trip to Italy was scheduled to include meetings with Pope Francis, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, and Italian President Sergio Mattarella. It would have been his final foreign visit of his presidency.
14 Comments
Eugene Alta
This is a slap in the face to the Italian people. They deserve better than to be abandoned by their supposed ally.
KittyKat
He's using the fires as an excuse to avoid tough meetings with world leaders.
Katchuka
This just proves that Biden is all talk and no action. He promised to be a global leader, but he can't even show up for important meetings.
Eugene Alta
This is just another example of how Biden is failing to lead on the world stage.
Marishka
He's proving that he's a strong and decisive leader.
Bella Ciao
He's putting the needs of a few over the needs of many. The wildfires are important, but Italy is a vital ally.
Muchacha
He's putting the needs of his people first, and that's what a true leader does.
Mariposa
This is a sign of weakness. Our enemies will see this as an opportunity to exploit us.
Comandante
He's showing compassion and empathy for those affected by the fires.
ZmeeLove
He's showing that he's a compassionate and caring leader.
Bella Ciao
He's doing what's right, regardless of the political consequences.
Comandante
The wildfires are a national emergency, and the president is right to be here to support the victims.
Raphael
He's the best president we've ever had.
Michelangelo
He's showing that he cares about the environment and is committed to fighting climate change.