Spain's civil-protection chief warned that the fires continue to pose a direct threat to populated areas, while Defence Minister Margarita Robles described "airborne action" as difficult because of thick smoke.

Spain and Portugal were the worst-affected countries in Europe, which has seen its most destructive wildfire season in nearly 20 years.

This year is turning into one of the worst fire seasons in recent memory in Europe. Firefighters are struggling to contain out-of-control wildfires in western Spain and Portugal.

Wildfires are burning in parts of Europe, displacing thousands, as water-dropping planes and helicopters swoop overhead and residents join the effort, beating back flames with cut branches or

Firefighters across Spain, Portugal, Greece, Turkey and the Balkans were battling wildfires on Tuesday, with another heatwave pushing temperatures above 40 degrees Celsius (104 degrees Fahrenheit) across parts of Europe.

Crews in Spain and Portugal worked to battle fires overnight, while Albania's defense ministry said a wildfire had been brought under control.

Smoke from wildfires in Southern Europe has brought hazy conditions to the UK, disrupting the current heatwave, forecasters have said. The UK experienced the fourth heatwave of the summer this week, with some areas seeing the mercury climb above 33C in the hottest places.

Ukraine and its European allies are seeking to persuade President Trump that a cease-fire is a prerequisite for peace talks with Russia.