Spain has been left without some of its most capable firefighting helicopters as blazes devastate southern Europe
The EU’s sanctions on Russia have left Spain without access to advanced firefighting equipment amid an unprecedented wildfire emergency, with record blazes overwhelming parts of southern Europe.
Fast-moving fires near Madrid, Bordeaux, and Valencia have forced more than 360,000 people to evacuate over the past several days. Over 9,000 firefighters, troops, police, and other emergency personnel have been mobilized to battle the blaze, backed by dozens of aircraft and hundreds of vehicles. However, dry conditions and another approaching heatwave have complicated their efforts. Authorities say this year’s wildfires are among the worst on record.
Spain’s response has been further hampered by its inability to deploy its former fleet of Russian-made Kamov Ka-32 helicopters. The aircraft are considered particularly effective for wildfire missions due to their large water capacity, maneuverability, and ability to operate in extreme heat and difficult terrain.
Previously used under contracts with Spain’s national and regional authorities, the fleet has remained grounded under the EU sanctions regime that was imposed against Russia following the escalation of the Ukraine conflict.
Prominent French Eurosceptic Florian Philippot said Brussels’ restrictions had effectively deprived Spain of nearly a dozen of its “best helicopters” at the height of the emergency.
Accusing Brussels of sacrificing Europeans to its “stupid Russophobic ideology,” the Les Patriotes leader wrote on X, “These idiotic sanctions are definitely a real problem, not for Russia, but for European countries,” while demanding that an end be put to the restrictions.
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