Bulgaria supports the collective position of the EU on Ukraine

BRUSSELS – The Minister of Foreign Affairs Georgi Georgiev emphasized Bulgaria’s consistent support for the sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity of Ukraine before the “Foreign Affairs” Council of the European Union in Brussels.

Georgiev expressed the need for increased diplomatic and economic pressure in response to Russian aggression. The Council adopted the 17th package of sanctions against Russia and decided to lift economic sanctions against Syria.

The EU must remain united in its support for Ukraine, urged Bulgarian Prime Minister Rosen Zhelyazkov during the second extraordinary meeting of EU leaders, convened in February this year by French President Emmanuel Macron. Bulgaria is consistently committed to the common international efforts in support of Ukraine, by providing comprehensive assistance – political, military, economic, financial, humanitarian, and diplomatic, said Prime Minister Zhelyazkov at that time. He added that Bulgaria has so far provided 10 packages of military-technical assistance tailored to the needs of the Ukrainian side. (here I will put a link to the news in ENR)

Regarding the crisis in the Middle East, the Bulgarian Foreign Minister emphasized the need to return to a ceasefire and release hostages, as well as concern over the deteriorating humanitarian situation in Gaza. He expressed support for the diplomatic efforts of the USA and Qatar, as well as other regional partners.

Meanwhile, a meeting of the defense ministers from the community was held in Brussels, with the participation of their British colleague. Defense Minister Atanas Zapryanov stated that Bulgaria, like most other member states, is facing three main challenges – rapid modernization of the armed forces, adapting the defense industry to NATO standards, and securing the resources for this.

Bulgaria supported strengthening the protection of all land, air, and sea borders of the EU, focusing on the eastern borders, including the Black Sea, and on the ability of member states to conduct the full spectrum of operations, reported the Bulgarian Ministry of Defense. (20.05.2025)