EU Mobilizes Massive Support to Combat Raging Wildfires in Greece and Albania
Wildfires Albania: In response to the devastating wildfires sweeping through Greece and Albania, the European Commission has swiftly activated emergency support under the EU Civil Protection Mechanism. With flames threatening lives, homes, and vital ecosystems, the Commission needs to spend more time coordinating a large-scale international firefighting effort.
Aerial and Ground Forces Deployed to Greece
To help Greece battle the relentless wildfires, the European Commission’s Emergency Response Coordination Centre (ERCC) has quickly mobilised aerial and ground firefighting resources from multiple European countries. This includes two rescue firefighting planes from Italy and helicopters from France and Serbia. On the ground, firefighting teams from Czechia, France, Italy, Serbia, and Romania have been deployed, while prepositioned Romanian, Maltese, and Moldovan firefighters were among the first to engage the blazes. Their courageous efforts are part of a coordinated European response to protect communities and critical infrastructure in Greece.
Targeted Assistance for Wild Fires Albania
Albania is also grappling with severe wildfires, and the EU has responded with targeted support. On August 14, a multipurpose military plane from Romania, capable of carrying six tons of water, will be deployed to assist Albanian authorities in their firefighting efforts. This is critical to Albania’s firefighting capabilities as they confront these dangerous fires.
Enhanced Preparedness for Europe’s Fire Season
The European Union has significantly bolstered its firefighting resources ahead of this year’s wildfire season. The rescue and European Civil Protection Pool now include 28 aeroplanes and four helicopters stationed across 10 Member States, ready for rapid deployment. Additionally, over 540 firefighters from 12 countries have been strategically prepositioned in key European locations, ensuring that help is available when and where needed.
The Commission remains closely engaged, monitoring the situation in Greece and Albania, and is ready to deploy further assistance if necessary. This robust, united effort underscores the EU’s commitment to protecting its citizens and the environment from the increasing threat of wildfires Albania.
