The British forces in Cyprus (BFC) provided significant support to emergency services of the Republic of Cyprus in the fight against destructive fires that covered the island last week. On Wednesday, July 30, the British government reported.
Due to extremely high temperatures and strong winds, the fire threatened at least 15 villages, destroying more than 120 square kilometers of forests and agricultural land. The helicopters of the British armed forces dumped water, coordinating actions with Cypriot firefighters to extinguish fire from air. BFC ground units also actively participated in the operation using bulldozers to create fire barriers, and medical and logistics teams assisted the victims.
Fires were particularly dangerous not only for Cyprus settlements, but also for British military facilities in the Trodos and Mount Olympus. Despite the threat to their own bases, the British military continued the operation, emphasizing their commitment to cooperation with Cyprus.
“All available resources were aimed not only in protecting our infrastructure, but also to the aid of Cyprus communities,” said BFC representative. “This is the essence of our partnership - to stand shoulder to shoulder in difficult times.”
Source: Cyprus-Mail
