Bulgaria Shifts Defense Policy: Calls for Peace Talks Between Russia and Ukraine

Bulgaria's new defense minister, Dimitar Stoyanov, has announced that the country will cease supplying arms to Ukraine and has urged for a diplomatic resolution to the conflict. Despite previously providing military support to Ukraine, Bulgaria now calls for a just peace determined by both Russia and Ukraine.

Bulgaria's newly appointed defense minister, Dimitar Stoyanov, declared on Tuesday that the nation will no longer supply arms to Ukraine, urging instead for peace negotiations between Russia and Ukraine. Stoyanov emphasized the importance of a diplomatic resolution, as reported by the BTA news agency.

Bulgaria, a strategic NATO and European Union member located on the Black Sea, had previously sent military equipment to Ukraine in 2024 and 2025. However, the focus has now shifted towards seeking a comprehensive and just peace, eschewing further military intervention.

Despite a pro-Russian reputation, Bulgaria's government, led by former president Rumen Radev, is committed to following pro-EU policies. The recent bilateral security agreement with Ukraine emphasizes joint defense production, intelligence sharing, and an energy corridor for natural gas.