Russia sends 2nd batch of humanitarian aid to quake-stricken Afghanistan

ISTANBUL

Russia said it delivered a second batch of humanitarian aid to Afghanistan following a series of strong earthquakes that recently struck the country’s east, causing casualties and extensive damage.

A statement by Russia’s Emergency Situations Ministry late Sunday said the supplies were delivered on the instructions of President Vladimir Putin. The ministry declared the batch’s arrival early Monday.

“On board are more than 20 tons of tents and blankets for the population affected by the devastating earthquake,” the statement added.

Afghanistan was hit by an earthquake on Aug. 31, killing more than 2,200 people and injuring around 4,000 others, devastating the country’s eastern province of Kunar.

Subsequent tremors have exacerbated the situation, increasing the casualty count and hampering rescue operations in remote and mountainous areas. Rescue efforts have continued since then, with many people still believed to be trapped under the debris of collapsed houses.

Russia sent an initial batch of humanitarian aid to Kabul last week, containing 20 tons of food.

• Afghanistan
• Humanitarian Aid
• Russia