Wildfires rage across Greece as strong winds hamper firefighting efforts to save coastal resort

As wildfires fanned by gale-force winds have burned across multiple areas of Greece and forced local residents to flee, hundreds of firefighters on Saturday battled to save the popular coastal resort of Porto Germeno on the Gulf of Corinth, some 60 kilometers northwest of Athens.

Wildfire smoke continues to blanket Porto Germeno as firefighters are battling a wildfire that has crossed from Boeotia into western Attica. Strong and constantly changing winds have created three separate fronts of wildfires, threatening communities, forests and homes across the wider area.

The fire began on Friday morning in Boeotia and then spread rapidly through dry vegetation toward the coast. More than 300 firefighters, 18 forest-commando units and 92 vehicles have been mobilized, and aircraft and helicopters have also jointed forces, but gale-force winds and severe turbulence have forced authorities to temporarily suspend aerial operations.

Emergency alerts have been issued to order residents and holidaymakers to leave several communities, including Porto Germeno, Agia Paraskevi, Kryo Pigadi and Agios Nektarios.

Twelve people trapped near the beach have been rescued by the Coast Guard and Fire Service vessels and safely transferred to Alepochori.

Several homes have been damaged or destroyed, while flames have swept through pine forest, farmland and livestock facilities. Residents described an extremely difficult night, with wildfire ash falling across the settlement and fire crews going from door to door to ensure that nobody remained behind.

Firefighters are now focusing on protecting the remaining homes and preventing the flames from advancing toward Mount Kithairon and Psatha. With strong winds continuing and new flare-ups still possible, authorities are warning residents not to return until the official evacuation orders have been lifted.

Wildfires rage across Greece as strong winds hamper firefighting efforts to save coastal resort

Wildfires rage across Greece as strong winds hamper firefighting efforts to save coastal resort

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Friday requested at least another 70 billion euros (78.8 billion U.S. dollars) in European Union (EU) assistance for 2027, while expressing frustration over recent restrictions on U.S.-controlled Starlink services and Washington's dealings with Moscow.

Addressing EU leaders at a summit in Brussels, Zelensky said Ukraine's costs related to the war would reach 155 billion euros next year and appealed for additional funding for defense, weapons and resilience.

"We need at least 70 billion euros more from you -- for defense, for weapons, and for our resilience. This is a realistic amount. And I ask you to find this support," he said.

At a subsequent press conference, Zelensky acknowledged Ukraine's heavy reliance on the U.S.-controlled Starlink satellite communications system, saying recent restrictions had disrupted drone interceptions and military logistics.

"Starlink was not turned off, but the speed limits were lowered," he said, describing the restrictions as a "very dangerous and unpleasant surprise."

Zelensky also criticized Washington's recent diesel agreement with Moscow and the easing of sanctions, saying Ukraine had not been informed in advance, while adding that Ukrainian and American negotiating teams remained in contact.

Zelensky seeks additional 70 bln euros from EU, voices frustration with U.S.