France PM pledges €12M as wildfires rage across Europe

French Prime Minister Élisabeth Borne announced on Monday a €12 million aid package for the regions hardest hit by ongoing wildfires. The announcement came as she faced heckling from local officials and residents during a visit to the fire-affected areas. The funds are intended to support emergency response efforts and begin recovery in communities that have suffered extensive damage. France, like much of Europe, has been battling multiple blazes in recent weeks, fueled by extreme heat and dry conditions. Borne’s visit was met with frustration from those who say the government’s response has been too slow. Local mayors and residents shouted at the prime minister, demanding more immediate action and clearer support for firefighters and evacuees. The aid package marks the first major financial commitment from the French government since the fires intensified. Officials say the money will be distributed to the worst-affected regions in the coming days. Across Europe, firefighters are still working to contain blazes in several countries, including Spain, Portugal, and Greece. The scale of this year’s fire season has put pressure on national governments to improve prevention and response strategies. Borne acknowledged the anger but defended her government’s efforts, saying more resources are being mobilized. She promised that additional support would follow as damage assessments are completed. The situation remains fluid, with weather forecasts predicting little relief in the short term.