Samantha Power, the administrator for the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), sparked controversy on social media with a tweet highlighting how U.S. assistance is helping to maintain electricity and heating in Ukraine.
The timing of her statement drew backlash as millions of Americans in the southeastern U.S. are still grappling with the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, which left many without power, food, and water.
Power’s tweet showcased U.S. support for Ukraine amid its ongoing struggles, but for many Americans enduring hardships at home, the message seemed out of touch. “As winter approaches, the U.S. is working to keep the lights on and the heat running in Ukraine,” Power wrote, emphasizing international aid efforts.
How Americans are helping Ukraine keep the lights and heat on despite Putin’s attacks: pic.twitter.com/29f1AxpgR7
— Samantha Power (@PowerUSAID) October 4, 2024
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However, critics questioned the appropriateness of her comments, particularly when so many in the U.S. are still recovering from a devastating natural disaster.
I am watching this video in a house without power. The sun has just set.
So you are making sure the lights stay on in Ukraine while thousands of Americans are currently still sitting the dark. https://t.co/9NGAkgjZqB
— Anna Hitrova (@redrose_anna) October 4, 2024
The hurricane, which tore through Georgia, South Carolina, and North Carolina, has left over 1.4 million homes and businesses without electricity, according to data from poweroutage.us.
Residents in the affected areas are dealing with extensive damage, including fallen trees, downed power lines, and destroyed infrastructure while struggling to access basic necessities.
In a report from the Associated Press, Sherry Brown, a resident of North Carolina, described the dire situation in her community. “She’s out of power and water. There is a tree on her roof and her SUV,” the AP reported.
Brown, like many others, has been forced to improvise, using her car’s alternator to power her refrigerator and preserve what little food she has left.
Hey, Asheville. Look. “Americans are helping Ukraine keep the lights and heat on”! https://t.co/w38ogIigLT
— Tandy (@dantypo) October 4, 2024
While relief efforts are ongoing, frustrations are mounting as recovery appears slow in many areas hit by the storm.
Social media users were quick to voice their discontent over Power’s comments, highlighting the contrast between foreign aid and the ongoing struggles within the U.S. “Maybe she should read this report from the Associated Press,” one user wrote, referencing the devastation in the Southeast.
Is Ukraine a town in Tennessee?
— Mostly Peaceful Memes (@MostlyPeacefull) October 4, 2024
Keep posting stupidity like this. While your Ukrainian sponsors may like it, your average American understands the betrayal it represents to our nation, especially those Americans who are in need. The Biden/Harris/Power priorities are on display for all to see.
— Scott Ritter (@RealScottRitter) October 4, 2024
President Trump and Elon Musk, when you start cleaning out that rats nest of useless people in the the AMERICAN GOVERNMENT, please start here.
— Dana (@OhMelodylane) October 4, 2024
Hurricane Helene, which struck the region late last week, has left a trail of destruction, uprooting trees, snapping power poles, and damaging homes.
In the hardest-hit areas, many residents are still waiting for power restoration and basic services to be restored.
The juxtaposition of the U.S. government’s foreign aid commitments and the ongoing crisis in the Southeast has left many questioning the administration’s priorities.
As Power’s tweet continues to circulate online, the response underscores the growing frustration among Americans who feel overlooked during a time of crisis at home.
However, the timing of her message has fueled criticism, with many urging a greater focus on addressing the immediate needs of Americans affected by Hurricane Helene.
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