Ukrainian rescuers arrive in France to battle massive wildfire
Photo: Ukrainian rescue workers in action in France (t.me/dsns_telegram)
A combined unit from the State Emergency Service of Ukraine has arrived in the French department of Gironde to assist in fighting a massive wildfire that has engulfed more than 42,000 hectares, according to the State Emergency Service of Ukraine.
How extensive is fire?
Aurélien Pétis, Deputy Chief of Operations for the Fire and Rescue Service (SDIS 33), reported that the fire covers an area of approximately 42,000 hectares, with a perimeter of 240 kilometers.
What role will Ukrainians play?
Upon arrival, the Ukrainian team held a working meeting with the leadership of the French service and representatives of the EU Emergency Response Coordination Center.
The French side noted that the Ukrainian specialists will be working specifically in the most challenging areas—their practical experience is considered unique and is highly valued by partners.
Currently, Ukraine has the largest international team among all participating countries.
Photo: State Emergency Service rescuers have joined the relief efforts in France (t.me/dsns_telegram)
Photo: State Emergency Service rescuers have joined the relief efforts in France (t.me/dsns_telegram)
Photo: State Emergency Service rescuers have joined the relief efforts in France (t.me/dsns_telegram)
Photo: State Emergency Service rescuers have joined the relief efforts in France (t.me/dsns_telegram)
What rescuers have already accomplished
Immediately after the meeting, the team headed directly to the disaster area. Ukrainian specialists conducted a reconnaissance of the terrain, assessed the operational situation, and inspected the locations where firefighting and fire containment efforts had already begun.
French President Emmanuel Macron has already convened a crisis meeting due to the massive wildfires sweeping the country.
The fires have already destroyed tens of thousands of hectares of forest, and thousands of people have been forced to evacuate their homes. Meanwhile, meteorologists are warning of a new wave of extreme heat, which could further complicate the situation.
On July 29, Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated that Ukraine was ready to assist France in fighting the massive wildfires.
