Belgium sends equipment and 30 military personnel to fight fires in France
Belgium is sending about 30 military personnel and specialized equipment to help fight major fires in the Gironde department in southwestern France. Belgian Prime Minister Bart De Wever announced the assistance on X. He said Belgium's French neighbours could count on Belgian solidarity and expressed support for those affected and for the emergency services involved.
Belgium's Ministry of Defence said two Panther fire engines would be flown to the region. Belgium will also send nine military tanker trucks. About 30 military personnel — the crews who will operate the equipment — will travel to Gironde with the vehicles.
Defence Minister Theo Francken said the deployment was initially planned for two weeks. The mission may be extended or expanded if the operational situation requires it.
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In Gironde, the area most affected by fires in France this summer, flames have devastated about 42,000 hectares. Other countries are also helping France fight the fires, with helicopters from the Czech Republic and Slovakia arriving in the Var department.
Ukraine has also offered assistance to France, while Lithuania is preparing to send a team of firefighters.
