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Russia receives assistance in battling blazes. With some 564 wildfires still burning across
174,000 hectares of land as of Monday, August 9, Russia’s Emergency Situations Ministry
also reported that air pollution in the capital Moscow also remained dire. Urban residents
have been warned to wear masks and remain indoors, as hospital visits and mortalities
have reportedly increased. Sending his condolences to Russian President Dmitry Medvedev on behalf
of the Chinese government and people was President Hu Jintao, who said that he understands the
distressing situations based on China’s recent massive disasters, while at the same
time offering his country’s assistance. Other neighbors sending help include Poland
and Bulgaria, who together have sent 50 vehicles and nearly 250 trained firefighters to help
support their Russian counterparts. Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk also conveyed in
a letter to Prime Minister Vladimir Putin that his country was committed to rendering
aid both now and for future rebuilding. Meanwhile, five Italian planes are arriving, three to
help in the Moscow region and two amphibious aircraft that are going to help save a nature
preserve. France has announced assistance and Germany committed to sending 100,000 protective
masks, as well as water hoses, pumps and generators. Armenia, Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, Ukraine and
Belarus have also joined the efforts, with aircraft and personnel being dispatched to
some of the worst affected regions.
Our gratitude and Heaven bless all international neighbors, for your meaningful assistance
in this time of need. Wishing the Russian people protection and the grace of cooling
rains as we pray that our striving for better harmony with the environment helps relieve
such extreme conditions as these�