Although the US has provided millions in aid, the war in Afghanistan has hindered its ability to provide the needed assistance. On Wednesday, the US announced a tripling of helicopters being sent to Pakistan to nineteen. The Obama administration had been criticized for sending only six helicopters so far, despite a Pakistani request for dozens more. The US had denied the request because the helicopters play a key role in Afghan combat operations. Asked about transferring the helicopters earlier this week, a senior military official told the Washington Post the decision would have to come from Washington, adding, “Do [the helicopters] exist in the region? Yes. Are they available? No.”