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EU chief mourns Greek and Danish pilots killed in helicopter crash during wildfire fight
🇬🇷 Greece /Disasters & Emergencies

EU chief mourns Greek and Danish pilots killed in helicopter crash during wildfire fight

From Ta Nea · () Greek

Translated from Greek, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

News Sources not specified Outcome reported
  • European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen expressed deep sorrow over the deaths of a Danish pilot and a Greek liaison officer.
  • The two died when two firefighting helicopters collided during a mission to extinguish a large fire in Psatha, Greece.
  • Von der Leyen stated that Europe mourns with Greece and Denmark and honored the sacrifice of those who flew toward flames to ensure others' safety.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen expressed profound grief following the tragic collision of two firefighting helicopters in Psatha, Greece. The incident resulted in the deaths of a Danish pilot and a Greek liaison officer who were actively engaged in extinguishing a large wildfire.

My thoughts are with the friends and families of the Greek and Danish wildfire pilots who tragically died earlier today in a collision with another helicopter while on duty in Greece.

— Ursula von der LeyenExpressing condolences for the deceased pilots.

In a message shared on the "X" platform, von der Leyen conveyed that Europe stands in solidarity with Greece and Denmark. She paid tribute to the individuals who sacrificed their lives in the line of duty, highlighting the "special courage" required to "fly towards the flames... so that others can be safe."

I wish a full recovery to those injured.

— Ursula von der LeyenWishing recovery to those injured in the helicopter crash.

The European leader extended her condolences to the friends and families of the deceased pilots. She also wished a full recovery to those who sustained injuries during the operation. "As we continue to fight these fires side-by-side, Europe mourns with Greece and Denmark," she added, emphasizing the shared struggle against the wildfires.

It takes a special courage to fly towards the flames…

— Ursula von der LeyenHighlighting the bravery of the pilots.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Ta Nea in Greek. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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