The below is attributable to Spokesperson Rebecca Chalif:
Today, Administrator Samantha Power met with the Chairman of the Syrian Civil Defence (SCD) Raed al-Saleh, and his team to discuss the vital importance of life-saving humanitarian and stabilization aid in Syria, recognizing the severe needs on the ground.
Administrator Power reaffirmed USAID’s commitment to the people of Syria, noting that the United States is the largest donor to the humanitarian response, having provided nearly $13.6 billion in humanitarian assistance in Syria since 2011. Administrator Power commended the life-saving work of the SCD—also known as the White Helmets—in the face of dangerous conditions, and deadly attacks, and expressed gratitude for all SCD staff and volunteers who have provided emergency assistance over the years.
Administrator Power emphasized the need to continue drawing attention to the brutality of the ongoing conflict in Syria, including the Assad regime’s targeted attacks on civilian populations and emergency first responders.