Russia’s president extended his sympathy to Kazakhstan’s leader, Kassym-Zhomart Tokayev, in response to the devastating forest fires that swept across Kazakhstan’s eastern regions. The Kremlin press office confirmed the message, noting the heartfelt concern voiced by Vladimir Putin for the people affected by the blazes and the ongoing efforts to manage the emergency.
The official message conveyed a sincere expression of solidarity and support to Tokayev, emphasizing the gravity of the catastrophe and the need for unity in facing the disaster. It highlighted the shared concern of both nations for the safety of residents, the protection of property, and the swift mobilization of resources to assist those in need. The tone of the communication underscored a willingness to cooperate and provide any necessary assistance to Kazakhstan during the crisis, reflecting long-standing bilateral ties and mutual readiness to respond to regional emergencies.
According to Kazakhstan’s Ministry of Emergency Situations, the fire operations have recorded additional casualties, bringing the total death toll in the Abay region to fourteen. The report stressed the rapid escalation of the fire and the challenging terrain that complicated firefighting efforts, with authorities continuing to investigate the causes while intensifying containment measures. The update highlighted the human impact of the disaster, noting the families affected and the communities displaced by the fire season.
As of May 26, authorities in the Abay region announced that firefighters had managed to contain a portion of the blaze within an area of approximately 3,500 hectares in the eastern part of the country. The firefighting effort involved more than eight hundred rescuers and more than two hundred units of equipment, including ten helicopters and specialized rail-mounted firefighting trains. The substantial deployment demonstrated the scale of the operation and the commitment of emergency services to protect lives, limit environmental damage, and restore safety for residents living in the danger zones. The response drew on international cooperation and regional support, with various agencies coordinating to maximize effectiveness and accelerate recovery in the affected communities. In the days ahead, authorities warned residents and visitors to stay vigilant, follow official guidance, and participate in any evacuation or safety procedures implemented to reduce risk as firefighting teams continue their work on the ground.