US relents, offers help to India in fighting new COVID-19 wave
US President Joe Biden has pledged to work closely with India as the country faces a massive surge in COVID-19 infections, with hospitals facing an oxygen crunch and crematoriums running full.
During a telephone call with Indian premier Narendra Modi on Monday, Biden offered his country's "steadfast support" to the people of India grappling with the second wave of the pandemic.
"The two leaders resolved that the United States and India will continue to stand shoulder-to-shoulder in the effort to protect our citizens and the health of our communities," the White House said in a statement.
"In response, the United States is providing a range of emergency assistance, including oxygen-related supplies, vaccine materials, and therapeutics," it added.
The country with the second largest population in the world has seen a terrifying surge in new COVID-19 infections and fatalities in recent weeks. It recorded around 350,000 fresh cases and about 2,700 deaths on Monday, with the capital city New Delhi among worst affected cities.
The United States had earlier shown reluctance in extending a helping hand to its South Asian ally, drawing criticism from several quarters, including from members and supporters of the Democratic party.
India, which recently overtook Brazil as the second worst-hit country after the US, has been offered support by Pakistan and Iran, beside Russia & China.
The United States, meanwhile, continues to grapple with the pandemic amidst new variants of the virus, despite massive vaccination program across the country.
Experts say there are several reasons for the rise in the numbers, including dangerous new variants, pandemic fatigue and more Americans moving around with little adherence to Covid-19 protocol.
To make matters worse, the US has hoarded tens of millions of COVID-19 vaccine doses that it may never use, according to reports.
Amassing vaccines in the US has been done despite warnings by the World Health Organization (WHO) against it.
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