24 Helicopters, that's all

On December 31, a hybrid United Nations-African Union command officially took control of the peacekeeping mission for Darfur.

But the mission is already in danger of collapse because world leaders aren't providing the critical equipment necessary for a successful mission. This peacekeeping mission needs 24 helicopters - but right now it has zero.

Fill out the form below to add your name to a petition urging President Bush to lead the world in helping find this crucial equipment.

Subject:

Dear President Bush,

(Edit Letter Below)

Five months ago, the United States supported the passage of United Nations Security Council Resolution 1769 authorizing a 26,000-member peacekeeping force to help protect the people of Darfur.  Unfortunately, that force has not yet been effectively deployed.

While Sudanese obstructionism is mainly to blame for the delay, the United States and other governments have not done enough to make the deployment possible.  One major obstacle has been the absence of helicopters to support the mission.

I write today to urge the U.S. to do whatever is necessary to ensure that the international force secures these helicopters. Specifically I ask you to:

1. Use all diplomatic means at your disposal, including your voice and any necessary and reasonable horse-trading, to convince other nations to provide helicopters.  Your new special envoy to Sudan should make the international effort to secure and deploy helicopters a top priority of his first days on the job.

2. Establish, with other developed nations a fund for the operation and maintenance of the necessary helicopters.  This fund will encourage nations who can contribute the necessary helicopters, but who lack the ability to finance their deployment.

Thank you for your leadership on this urgent matter.

Sincerely,
[Your name]
[Your address]

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