International Crews Battle Major Wildfire in Serbia's Deliblatska Peščara Reserve

Serbia is receiving crucial international aid to battle a devastating wildfire that has consumed over 3,500 hectares of the Deliblatska peščara nature reserve. Four helicopters and ground crews from the Czech Republic, Romania, and Slovakia have arrived as part of the European Union's Civil Protection Mechanism, following Serbia's request for assistance.

Andreas von Bekerath, head of the EU mission in Serbia, pledged Brussels' support in protecting the unique natural heritage of the reserve. The aid package also includes an EU liaison officer to ensure efficient delivery of assistance. A Russian Il-76 aircraft has also been deployed, dropping 420 tons of water in 10 sorties over two days.

The Deliblatska peščara, a vital nature reserve spanning approximately 380 square kilometers, is home to over 900 plant species and numerous rare animals. While no lives have been lost, the fire, which has raged for weeks, has inflicted severe environmental damage, with experts estimating decades will be needed to restore the forest ecosystem of native conifers and deciduous trees. Lower vegetation is expected to recover more quickly.

Although the main fire in Deliblatska peščara is reportedly under control, meteorologists warn that high temperatures, lack of rainfall, and shifting winds continue to pose a risk of further spread. Smaller fires remain active in other parts of Serbia, with firefighters facing challenging terrain in the Ibarska klisura and on Stolovi mountain.

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Brussels stands with Serbia in protecting lives, property, and the unique natural heritage of Deliblatska peščara.