Bulgaria has officially ceased its participation in the 'Coalition of the Willing' and refused further military and financial support for Ukraine. This was announced by the country's Prime Minister, Rumen Radev, whose words were reported by Bloomberg citing RBK-Ukraine.
Course correction: from weapons to diplomacy
Rumen Radev, who took the helm of the government in May, has set a course to revise relations with Kyiv. According to the Prime Minister, Sofia is no longer willing to participate in formats that insist on an exclusively military resolution to the conflict. Radev is convinced that the escalation can only be stopped through a powerful diplomatic mission.
The head of government emphasized the need to build 'pragmatic' relations with Russia, while categorically rejecting accusations of pro-Russian sympathies. His position caused a stir, as Bulgaria had previously been an active participant in initiatives to support Ukraine.
Facts and figures: what has changed in practice
The decision to leave the coalition has already been reflected in Sofia's actions. Bulgaria did not send its representative to the last meeting of coalition participants, which took place in Paris. This became the first step towards a complete break with the format.
After coming to power in May, Radev's government officially suspended the direct transfer of weapons to Ukraine. However, it is worth noting an important nuance: the country has not ceased commercial sales of weapons and ammunition to Kyiv. Bulgaria remains one of the largest producers in the European Union of Soviet-style shells, which played a key role in supplying the Ukrainian army in the initial stages of the full-scale invasion.
Partners' reaction and coalition plans
Sofia's decision contradicts statements about expanding the coalition. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy previously reported that the initiative continues to attract new participants. Following the Paris meeting, the participating countries agreed to hold the next summit on Ukrainian territory and announced the accession of two new states.
Despite Bulgaria's exit, partners continue to intensify their activities. Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk reported that military exercises of the 'Coalition of the Willing' will take place in Poland for the first time this autumn. Their main goal will be to work out mechanisms for ensuring Ukraine's security.
