Bulgarian President Proposes Black Sea States Meeting After Drone Incident, Excluding Russia

Bulgarian President Iliana Iotova has proposed convening a meeting of Black Sea states, excluding Russia, to enhance the security of maritime routes. The initiative comes in the wake of a drone explosion within Bulgarian territory, highlighting regional security concerns.

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Bulgaria is interested in ensuring the safety of Black Sea routes. We are suffering economic and financial losses, and I believe other states would agree to organize such a meeting. Why shouldn't Bulgaria be the initiator?

"Bulgaria is interested in ensuring the safety of Black Sea routes. We are suffering economic and financial losses, and I believe other states would agree to organize such a meeting. Why shouldn't Bulgaria be the initiator?" Iotova stated, as reported by BNT News. This proposal marks her first public reaction since the drone incident near Kardam.

Speaking to journalists in Varna, President Iotova indicated she is awaiting official reports to determine the drone's type, purpose, and whether its entry into Bulgarian airspace was intentional or accidental. She confirmed ongoing coordination with the Council of Ministers and relevant services. Bulgaria's Chief of Defense is also in contact with Romanian and Ukrainian counterparts to clarify the incident's circumstances.

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I am disappointed by the way this incident is being used for primitive political purposes. For me, the most important thing is the safety of Bulgarian citizens.

Iotova praised the first responders and stressed that citizen safety is paramount, urging against the political exploitation of the incident. She also acknowledged Bulgaria's vulnerabilities to drone threats, noting the need for enhanced systems and support for domestic producers of such technology. The president reiterated Bulgaria's commitment to its strategic objectives but emphasized the necessity of defense system reforms. Furthermore, she advocated for intensified diplomatic efforts to achieve a peaceful resolution to the war in Ukraine, warning that similar incidents could occur daily.

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We have many gaps regarding systems capable of combating drones, and these devices are becoming increasingly sophisticated. I believe the Bulgarian state must do everything possible to support companies that produce such systems.