Bulgaria's new government halts all arms deliveries to Ukraine

Bulgaria will cease all military aid to Ukraine, as announced by Defense Minister Dimitar Stoyanov. The new government, led by Prime Minister Rumen Radev's party which won the April election, has made its stance clear: the war in Ukraine will not be resolved militarily.

"What we see is a war of attrition. Regardless of how many weapons are collected, the loss of life is the only result," Stoyanov told reporters in Sofia. He emphasized that Ukraine's primary need is for personnel, not additional weaponry, stating the country already possesses sufficient arms.

“

What we see is a war of attrition. Regardless of how many weapons are collected, the loss of life is the only result. Ukraine needs more people, not more weapons. The country already has enough of it, and we do not envision supplying Ukrainian forces with more.

Bulgaria, a member of both the European Union and NATO, had supplied considerable military assistance to Ukraine following the initial Russian invasion. This aid primarily consisted of older Soviet-era military equipment. Due to internal political disagreements on the issue, shipments were often facilitated through third countries.

Stoyanov indicated that the time has come for diplomatic solutions, urging both sides to engage in negotiations for a fair and lasting peace. This policy shift marks a significant change from Bulgaria's previous support for Ukraine's defense efforts.

“

Now is the time for the parties to sit at the negotiating table and achieve a peace that is perceived as fair for both.