Biden Cancels Italy Trip Amid California Wildfires

President Joe Biden has canceled his upcoming trip to Italy, including a meeting with Pope Francis, to focus on the federal response to devastating wildfires in Los Angeles that have killed at least five people and forced thousands to evacuate. White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre stated that Biden made this decision after meeting with emergency personnel and approving a Major Disaster declaration for California. The trip was scheduled to take place from January 9 to 12 and was expected to be his last overseas visit as president. Biden's cancellation highlights the administration's prioritization of domestic crises over international diplomacy amidst the ongoing wildfire disaster. Firefighting resources are being bolstered with assistance from neighboring states and federal agencies to combat the blazes spreading across the region.