EU Deploys Aircraft to Combat Portugal Wildfires

The European Union is mobilizing eight firefighting aircraft to assist Portugal in combating severe wildfires in the Aveiro region, which have injured over a dozen firefighters and forced evacuations of approximately 70 residents. The fires, exacerbated by high temperatures exceeding 30°C, have led to significant road closures, including the main route between Lisbon and Porto. EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen praised the quick response from France, Greece, Italy, and Spain, while urging other member states to provide further support. As of Monday, around 1,500 firefighters are engaged in battling the blazes, with the situation described as complex but not out of control. The fires have already resulted in fatalities and serious injuries, with ongoing concerns about deteriorating weather conditions that could exacerbate the fire risk. Local authorities are working tirelessly to contain the situation, with additional aerial support on the way from neighboring countries.