EU mobilises aid to combat wildfires in North Macedonia, Bulgaria and Albania

The EU Civil Protection Mechanism was activated this week for the wildfires burning across southeastern Europe. 

Commissioner for Crisis Management, Janez Lenarčič, said: “In the constant fight against wildfires, the EU Civil Protection Mechanism responded immediately. I am grateful to the Member States that sent assistance – this is EU solidarity in practice!”

Following a request for assistance by North Macedonia, Germany and Sweden mobilised 2 planes each from the rescEU fleet. This assistance was complemented by Czechia, with 1 rescEU helicopter, and Slovenia with 2 helicopters. In addition, a liaison officer from the EU’s Emergency Response Coordination Centre was also deployed to North Macedonia to help coordinate the response in the country. 

In Bulgaria, in response to the activation of the Mechanism, Greece and France deployed 2 planes each. Additionally, 2 planes from the rescEU fleet in Sweden complemented the response.

Finally, to support Albania help fight wildfires, 2 planes from the rescEU fleet stationed in Italy were deployed.

The EU's Emergency Response Coordination Centre continues to closely monitor the situation, ensuring that further assistance can be swiftly deployed if required.