Montenegro Battles Multiple Wildfires as Soldier Dies, Another Injured

Montenegro is battling multiple large wildfires intensified by a severe heatwave, with fires affecting areas near the capital Podgorica, the Adriatic coast, and northern regions. During firefighting efforts, Sergeant Dejan Bozovic died and Sergeant Marko Ikovic was seriously injured when their water truck overturned in the mountainous Kuci area. The Montenegrin Defence Ministry is investigating the accident. Firefighting operations involve the army, local firefighters, volunteers, and international assistance, including aerial waterbombing and support from Serbia, Croatia, and Italy. The fires have destroyed homes, forced evacuations, and caused temporary road closures, while strong winds and high temperatures complicate containment. Neighboring countries Albania and Croatia are also facing severe wildfires due to the heatwave, with Albania evacuating several villages amid suspicions of arson in some cases.