Complex Emergency, 08-09-2008
In early August, heightened tension led to armed conflict involving Georgian and Russian armed forces and a South Ossetian separatist group, affecting populations along the Georgia-Russia border and areas within Georgia, including South Ossetia, parts of Abkhazia, and the town of Gori. As of August 11, various field estimates cited between 1,000 and 2,000 conflict-related deaths in and around South Ossetia. The Office of the U.N. High Commissioner for Refugees cited Government of Georgia estimates indicating up to 68,000 people were internally displaced as a result of heavy fighting in South Ossetia. In addition, approximately 30,000 people reportedly fled to North Ossetia in Russia, according to international media. The International Committee of the Red Cross reported that the large number of people requiring emergency medical treatment had overwhelmed local medical facilities, while international media reported that hospitals and other infrastructure were badly damaged by aerial bombardments. The number of casualties and internally displaced persons may increase as additional information becomes available.
On August 9, U.S. Ambassador John F. Tefft declared a disaster due to the effects of armed conflict in Georgia. In response, OFDA provided an initial $250,000 through the U.S. Embassy in Tbilisi for the provision of emergency relief supplies to benefit up to 10,000 people. In addition, the U.S. Embassy has provided emergency shelter items and medical supplies, valued at $1.2 million, including tents, blankets, bedding, hygiene items, clothing, beds, and cots. OFDA will continue to be in close communication with the U.S. Department of State and humanitarian agencies on the ground to determine humanitarian needs and provide additional assistance as required.
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