Bulgarian Defense Minister: We Must Continue to Support Ukraine
Newly appointed Bulgarian Defense Minister Todor Tagarev, following the first meeting of the newly elected government, stated to journalists that Bulgaria should continue to provide assistance to Ukraine.
This news was reported by the Bulgarian agency BTA.
"It is extremely important for ensuring the security of Bulgaria. What we provide depends on many factors, such as real needs at a specific moment and what we have available at that moment. Approval from the National Assembly is required. That's how we will act - transparently and comprehensibly, as it should be in a parliamentary republic," said Tagarev.
Next week, a ministerial meeting will take place in Brussels, preceded by a meeting in the Ramstein format. Tagarev assumes that he will receive clearer information regarding specific requests at that time.
"This is important because needs change gradually, and we will see how we can help," stated the Bulgarian Defense Minister.
His first priority in his position is the formation of a proper team. He announced that he will be supported in his work by two deputy ministers. Currently, the name of only one of them, Stanimira Georgieva, is known, as she has already been appointed, according to the minister.
The newly appointed Defense Minister outlined three main directions for his future work:
Firstly, the continuation of efforts to strengthen the country's defense capabilities.
Secondly, Bulgaria's contribution, along with its army, to ensuring security and stability in the Black Sea region and Southeastern Europe.
Thirdly, the promotion of democratic civil-military relations.
In his statement after assuming office from the previous Defense Minister, Dimitar Stoyanov, Minister Todor Tagarev emphasized that the package of measures announced by the two leading political forces for the short and long term includes the intention to achieve a defense budget of no less than 2% of GDP.
He announced that he will familiarize himself with the ministry's investment program, which includes priority modernization projects for the Bulgarian Armed Forces.
Tagarev emphasized the importance of Bulgaria's contribution, along with its army, to ensuring security and stability in the Black Sea region and Southeastern Europe.
"We will have security when the last occupant leaves Ukraine's border and aggressive intentions from the Kremlin are blocked. Only in this way can we guarantee our region and our future," said Tagarev.
He added that Bulgaria will do everything necessary to strengthen its defense capabilities and provide assistance to Ukraine so that it can continue its alleged counteroffensive and liberate its territories."