EU approves €21.5M emergency aid for farmers hit by extreme weather
The European Commission has approved a €21.5 million aid package for farmers in Bulgaria, Estonia, and Hungary. The funds come from the EU's agricultural reserve and aim to support those hit by extreme weather conditions. Each country will distribute the money to affected farmers by 30 September 2026.
Bulgaria will receive €7.4 million after severe drought and heatwaves slashed sunflower and maize yields. Estonia's share of €3.3 million follows a harsh spring frost and a cold, wet growing season that damaged crops. Hungary, allocated €10.8 million, faced extreme heat and water shortages, harming several key harvests.
The aid forms part of the common agricultural policy (CAP) 2023-2027, which includes a €450 million annual reserve for market crises or exceptional events. Member States can also add up to 200% of their own funds to the EU support. In 2025, Spain, Italy, and Greece received similar aid from the same reserve for weather-related losses. Before releasing the funds, Bulgaria, Estonia, and Hungary must submit detailed plans to the Commission. The move reflects the EU's broader push to improve risk management and help farms cope with worsening climate conditions.
The aid must reach farmers by the end of September 2026. Each country will report its distribution methods to the Commission. The support aims to ease financial strain caused by extreme weather and strengthen agricultural resilience.
