France requested European Union assistance to battle severe wildfires along the Atlantic coast, particularly in the Gironde region, as President Emmanuel Macron announced international reinforcements arriving from Croatia, Portugal, the Czech Republic, and Slovakia according to a social media statement published on July 23, 2026.
France Activates European Civil Protection Mechanism for Gironde Wildfires
Emergency crews battled rapidly spreading flames near the southwestern coast of France. According to statements released by President Emmanuel Macron on the platform X, the national government formally requested the activation of the European Union Civil Protection Mechanism to manage the crisis.
The unfolding disaster prompted widespread evacuations across the region. Local officials reported that authorities evacuated more than 10,000 people overnight as an intense wildfire consumed at least six thousand acres of land west of the city of Bordeaux, near the residential area of Lège-Cap-Ferret.
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International Firefighting Fleet Deployed to Southwestern France
To combat the blazes threatening residential zones, the European response mobilization brings specialized aerial support from multiple nations. According to President Macron’s announcement, the deployment includes two Canadair planes from Croatia, two Air Tractor aircraft from Portugal, and two Black Hawk helicopters dispatched from the Czech Republic and Slovakia.
Ground operations remain under severe pressure as firefighters confront the flames. President Macron expressed direct support for the emergency personnel, noting that rescue forces continue to work without a break along the active fire fronts in Gironde.
Frequently Asked Questions
What triggered the emergency requests in France?
France requested international support through the European Union after fast-moving wildfires consumed land west of Bordeaux, forcing the overnight evacuation of residents near Lège-Cap-Ferret.
Which countries are sending firefighting equipment to France?
Croatia is sending two Canadair planes, Portugal is providing two Air Tractor aircraft, and the Czech Republic and Slovakia are deploying two Black Hawk helicopters.
Where are the worst fires currently located?
According to official reports, the most severe pressure remains in the Gironde department along the country’s Atlantic coast.
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