We don't need their stinking money! Shouldn't surprise you though, Japan typically gives their foreign aid to countries that are actually in need. Keep in mind that we are the richest nation on earth, yet rank as one of the lowest 1st world nations when it comes to foreign aid as a percentage of GDP. Add to that the fact that we actually have the resources to handle this type of situation, how we choose to utilize these resources is a different story. I just read an article about how a group of medical staff from Vancouver, Canada, was the first medical team to arrive on the scene following the hurricane and begin offering assistance to the Katrina victims. Not the first foreign medical team, they were actually the first team! Funny how they could get it together and be more prepared then our own folks.
As for Kuwait's donation, that is terrific - even if it wasn't 100% politically motivated.
Since we are such a stingy wealthy nation, perhaps we should appreciate any assistance that is offered. We could also take the matter into our own hands (which we are good at) and donate ourselves. If you are interested, checkout the American Red Cross at
http://www.redcross.org/.