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17:00 GMT
BRUSSELS, Nov 3 (KUNA) -- The European Commission announced on Monday that the European Union has allocated 21.5 million euros in new humanitarian aid amid worsening humanitarian crises in Venezuela and Haiti, as well as the extensive damage caused by Hurricane Melissa in the Caribbean region.
In a press release, the Commission said that the aid will be directed towards providing essential assistance such as food, healthcare, protection, and emergency relief to the most affected groups.
The statement explained that up to 14.5 million euros of the total amount will be dedicated to addressing the consequences of the crisis in Venezuela, including its spillover effects on neighboring countries such as Colombia, with a focus on protection, healthcare, and nutrition.
It added that five million euros will be allocated to support the emergency response to Hurricane Melissa in Jamaica, Cuba, and Haiti, noting that EU humanitarian partners are currently providing drinking water, sanitation supplies, and emergency shelter, while the EU prepares to operate humanitarian airbridge flights and deliver relief stocks through its Civil Protection Mechanism.
The EU commission pointed out that this aid comes in addition to relief supplies being distributed through the EU Civil Protection Mechanism, including shelters, water and sanitation, protective equipment, and energy support.
It also noted that another two million euros will be allocated to support those affected by the crisis in Haiti, where "unprecedented levels of gang violence are threatening local communities and forcing many people to flee." The funding will be used to provide food assistance and support displaced populations.
The statement concluded by noting that since the beginning of the year, the EU has allocated 149 million euros to Latin American and Caribbean countries. (end)
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