France and US commit firefighting resources to Greece

As wildfires continue to extend across European territories, with Greece experiencing its worst wildfire season in three decades. Following the spread of over 400 wildfires since Saturday 7 August, France and the US has committed to sending aerial firefighting resources to the country.

Canadair and Boeing aircraft deployed

On Saturday 7 August, the Twitter account of French President Emmanuel Macron tweeted: “France stands by Greece, which is suffering greatly from catastrophic fires. After discussion with the [Greek] Prime Minister, 3 Canadairs and 80 French firefighters and rescuers were deployed in Greece with urgent procedures. Solidarity, as Europeans, always.”

Similarly, the US Embassy in Athens confirmed on Friday 6 August that US Naval Forces would be providing a Boeing P-8 aerial reconnaissance aircraft.

While the UK has not committed any firefighting aircraft, UK Home Secretary Priti Patel tweeted: “We are sending a team of experienced firefighters to support Greek firefighters currently battling the huge blazes. When I visited my Greek counterpart earlier this week I saw the devastating effect the fires are having. The UK stands with you.”

Several countries are experiencing unprecedented wildfires, including Italy and Turkey, with Spain, Ukraine, and Iran committing vital resources to the latter.