UN Calls for $1 Billion to Aid Earthquake Victims in Turkey

The UN Secretary-General António Guterres announced on Thursday the necessity of raising $1 billion in humanitarian aid for those affected by a powerful earthquake in Turkey.

“Today, the UN is calling for $1 billion in humanitarian assistance to the people of Turkey who have suffered from the most devastating earthquake of the last century,” the statement from the Secretary-General reads.

According to the statement, the funds will help provide assistance to 5.2 million people over the next three months and accelerate the work of humanitarian organizations in Turkey.

“I urge the international community to intensify efforts to address the consequences of one of the greatest natural disasters of our time,” the statement emphasizes.

On the night of February 6, Turkey experienced an earthquake measuring 7.7 on the Richter scale, followed by several aftershocks, one of which was measured at 7.6 magnitude. This earthquake has resulted in severe destruction and loss of life in neighboring Syria as well.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan had previously stated that the death toll from the powerful earthquake in the country has exceeded 35,400.