In a response to the recent devastating floods caused by Storm Boris in central and eastern Europe, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen announced a 10 billion euros fund to aid affected member nations. The death toll from the storm has risen to 24, with areas still facing threats from rising waters.
Von der Leyen expressed her sorrow at the destruction caused by the floods but also highlighted the remarkable solidarity shown by the people in the affected countries. She mentioned that the European Union is ready to provide assistance through cohesion funds and the solidarity fund to support in repairing and reconstructing the damage.
The EU plans to mobilize 10 billion euros from the cohesion funds for the affected countries, with the funds covering 100% of the costs without requiring co-financing from member states. The devastation caused by the storm has been likened to a war zone in some areas, leaving behind significant destruction.
Meetings were held in Wroclaw, Poland, with European leaders and representatives from the affected countries to discuss the situation and coordinate relief efforts. Despite the challenges faced, grassroots funding initiatives have emerged, showing local support for those affected by the floods.
Overall, the focus is on providing immediate aid and support to the regions hit hardest by the floods, recognizing the urgency and scale of the devastation.