EU mobilises eight firefighting planes to support Portugal amid wildfires

Following Portugal’s activation of the EU Civil Protection Mechanism in response to severe wildfires in the northern part of the country, the European Commission has mobilised eight firefighting planes. These include two each from Spain, Italy, France, and Greece, to support the Portuguese first responders on the ground. This is the second time this summer that Portugal has activated the Mechanism due to wildfires. The planes, part of the rescEU fleet and the European Civil Protection Pool, are financially supported by the Commission.

Crisis Management Commissioner Janez Lenarčič said: “The EU stands in full solidarity with Portugal. Our swift response, with eight firefighting planes from four member states, underscores the strength of European cooperation in times of crisis. We are working around the clock to ensure that the necessary support reaches those fighting the fires on the ground.”

The European Union’s 24/7 Emergency Response Coordination Centre (ERCC) has also deployed a Liaison Officer to support the Portuguese authorities. The ERCC is actively monitoring the situation and coordinating the delivery of assistance.

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