Serbia appeals to EU and Russia for emergency wildfire support

The Serbian government announced on Tuesday that it has formally requested emergency assistance from both the European Union and the Russian Federation to help contain a series of intense wildfires sweeping through the country’s central and southern regions. Officials said the blazes, fueled by a prolonged dry spell and high temperatures, have rapidly expanded across several districts, endangering villages, agricultural land and extensive woodland.

Prime Minister Aleksandar Vučić’s office issued a joint statement outlining the need for additional firefighting personnel, aerial water‑dropping aircraft, and specialized equipment that exceed the capacity of the national fire service. The appeal to the EU highlights the bloc’s Civil Protection Mechanism, which can mobilise resources such as helicopter units, ground crews and logistical support on short notice. Simultaneously, Serbia’s diplomatic channels have reached out to Moscow, citing existing bilateral agreements that allow for rapid deployment of Russian fire‑fighting assets in times of crisis.

Local authorities reported that the fires have already forced evacuations in several small communities, with residents moving to temporary shelters set up in nearby schools and municipal buildings. While the exact scale of damage remains under assessment, early estimates suggest that thousands of hectares of forest and farmland could be affected if containment efforts are delayed.

The request comes amid a broader pattern of increasingly severe wildfire seasons across the Balkans, where climate‑related factors have intensified the frequency and intensity of such events. Regional experts note that coordinated cross‑border assistance can significantly improve response times and reduce the overall impact on both human populations and the environment.

As the situation develops, Serbian officials are preparing to receive and integrate any incoming aid, emphasizing the importance of swift cooperation to protect lives, property, and the nation’s natural resources.