Wild West of PPE: Global Tensions Boil Over
German officials are fuming after claiming the US diverted 200,000 FFP2 masks (akin to N95 respirators) bound for Berlin’s police force. The masks, reportedly made in the Chinese mainland, were allegedly seized at Bangkok airport under Trump’s Defense Production Act – a move Berlin’s mayor called 'inhumane.'
The Mask Heist Mystery
While 3M says it has 'no record' of Berlin’s order, US officials deny the claims. But with #COVID19 cases soaring globally, nations are scrambling for protective gear. Germany’s interior minister blasted 'Wild West methods,' referencing reports of inflated prices and bidding wars.
Global Backlash Brewing
France and Canada have also criticized US tactics, while 3M warns halting exports to Latin America could spark a humanitarian crisis. Meanwhile, Germany faces heat from EU neighbors for its own export restrictions. As cases surge worldwide, the race for PPE reveals a stark truth: no player emerges unscathed in this pandemic.
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German authorities accuse U.S. of 'piracy' by seizing face masks
cgtn.com