Moldovan firefighters deploy to Greece for EU wildfire mission
A team of 24 firefighters from the General Inspectorate for Emergency Situations (IGSU) will deploy to Greece on July 14. They will assist Greek authorities in combating severe forest fires across the country.
The first contingent consists of specialists trained in ground forest firefighting using vehicles (GFFFv-MD). Traveling by land, the unit is heading directly to the Thessaloniki region.
The team carries seven specialized intervention vehicles designed for wildland fire suppression and complex emergency response.
Escalating Wildfire Crisis in Greece
The deployment comes as Greece battles widespread wildfires fueled by extreme heat, prolonged drought, and strong winds.
In recent weeks, Greek authorities have responded to dozens of blazes. Several outbreaks forced widespread evacuations and required extensive firefighter mobilizations.
This deployment marks the fourth consecutive year Moldovan crews have joined European response efforts under the EU Civil Protection Mechanism.
Proven track record in international response
Moldovan rescuers have built a strong history of international emergency operations. In summer 2024, IGSU teams extinguished forest fires in Greece's Evia and Attica regions, protecting homes and saving three lives.
During the devastating 2023 wildfire season in Greece, Moldovan firefighters were also on the front lines, helping safeguard communities amid massive forest evacuations.
Earlier in February 2023, IGSU teams deployed to Turkey’s Hatay province following a catastrophic earthquake. Working alongside global rescue units, they conducted complex search-and-rescue operations under urban rubble.
Moldova’s continued presence in these missions highlights IGSU’s commitment to international civil protection and European emergency response cooperation.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
