EU appalled by crisis in Syria

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BRUSSELS, Jan. 16 (UPI) -- The European leader in charge of humanitarian aid said she was "appalled" by the level of suffering of the Syrian people during the country's civil war.

Kristalina Georgieva, the European commissioner responsible for humanitarian aid and crisis response, told lawmakers in Brussels that as conflict spreads in Syria, prices for basic foods and fuels have skyrocketed. Meanwhile, bad weather in the region means further complications for the 2 million people displaced persons in Syria and the estimated 632,000 who have fled to neighboring countries.

"I am appalled by the deteriorating situation in Syria and its effect on the suffering people of that country," she said her statement. "With no political solution yet in sight I fear the worst is still to come."

European lawmakers scheduled a session Wednesday to discuss attempts by the United Nations and Arab League to secure a transition to democracy in Syria in an effort to end the bloodshed there. At least 82 people were killed in twin attacks on a university campus Tuesday in Aleppo.

"It is crucial in this corroding situation, that the international community stays strong in its commitment and that it continues to give generously to assist the growing tide of desperate Syrians," said Georgieva.

The European Commission said its members have contributed more than $474 million in humanitarian assistance for Syria and neighboring countries.