Minister Zapryanov: Bulgaria will continue to support EU and NATO efforts to strengthen Ukraine’s defense capabilities – Politics

Defense Minister Atanas Zapryanov took part in a meeting of the Foreign Affairs Council today, April 22, in Luxembourg.

The ministers of foreign affairs and the ministers of defense of the member states of the European Union (EU) discussed Russia’s aggression against Ukraine. Minister Zapryanov confirmed the determination of our country to continue providing military assistance to Ukraine as long as necessary.

“Bulgaria will continue to support the efforts of the EU and NATO to provide Ukraine with all the necessary equipment, training and capacity building in order to strengthen its defense capabilities,” the minister pointed out.

He informed about the delivered military aid in the past year, which continues in the current year as well. Based on a recent review, additional quantities of surplus weapons will be determined to be delivered to Ukraine.

Within the framework of the EU Military Mission in support of Ukraine, our country is ready to provide training on its territory to infantry units and combat medics. English language training is now provided to Ukrainian military personnel.

“The European Instrument for Peace is an important political tool that we must continue to use in our support for Ukraine,” emphasized Minister Zapryanov. He identified military support provided by stockpiles of EU member states as a working approach in response to the urgent needs of the Ukrainian Armed Forces.

At the same time, the Minister of Defense emphasized that for the long-term support of Ukraine, the joint acquisition through public procurement related to the production capacity of the defense industry will play an essential role. In connection with the new European program for the defense industry, which envisages among other measures and financial incentives from the European budget, he called for an inclusive approach involving the defense industries of all member states.

Minister Zapryanov welcomed the importance of the EU’s long-term commitments to Ukraine in the field of security and defense, which will contribute to the strengthening and stability of the country in the post-war period as well.