The position of the Bulgarian Minister of Defense regarding the conflict between Russia and Ukraine is, to put it mildly, inadequate. This was said to FOCUS by General Sabi Sabev, Bulgaria’s first representative in NATO.
“NATO has said it will not engage in military action in this conflict. NATO is taking precautionary action to de-escalate and show determination if Russia crosses certain borders. Indeed, the goal is to de-escalate this military tension that Russia has been fueling over Ukraine for several weeks.
The position of the Bulgarian Minister of Defense is, to put it mildly, inadequate. So far, Bulgaria should have had a clear position. There was enough information about this escalating tension, which is quite high – almost on the verge of military conflict.
It is good that there will be a Security Council tomorrow. With the Prime Minister. “I hope he will clarify Bulgaria’s position in this regard and our government to speak with one voice, and not through the votes of individual ministers with, to put it mildly, inadequate personal opinions about the situation,” he added.
Gen. Sabev stressed that the country’s position on growing military tensions is chaotic and unclear.
“The CCNS had to meet with the president and take a stand on this issue. We have made some statements, as if a little forced, against the background of the positions of other countries. Romania was an example in this regard.
Quite chaotic, vague and indecisive is our position and attitude towards this growing military tension, which is close to our borders by sea. I hope things will be clarified tomorrow, “he added.
According to him, the measures taken by NATO are preventive and adequate.
“NATO is indeed taking precautionary and preventive measures, which are very adequate in this case, because it will have no effect ex post facto if this invasion by Russia takes place.
Unfortunately, many countries believe that it is inevitable. We hope that with these measures that NATO is taking, bringing its Rapid Reaction Force ready and sending some small elements to the East, including our country, things will go in the opposite direction.
“I hope that the Russian leadership will understand the messages of NATO and Europe that a war will be destructive for Russia itself,” he said. Sabev.
He expressed hope for strengthening the American contingent in Novo Selo.
“I hope that the American contingent in Novo Selo will be strengthened if the United States makes such a decision. I expect a national battle group to be deployed in Bulgaria. Similar to that in the Baltic republics and in Paula. Romania is also working on this issue.
The ultimate goal and need in the drunken region is to move from an adapted to an enhanced front presence. This is extremely necessary, as the tension is in our region and this will be a completely adequate position in the NGO.
We look forward to the arrival of a small air contingent to strengthen our airspace defense capabilities. Individual ships will also arrive in the Black Sea to strengthen NATO’s naval presence. This is also a signal to Russia that the escalation should not increase further.
As NATO’s Rapid Reaction Force is ready, it is possible to decide on larger contingents if a military conflict breaks out. “NATO has enough forces.” Sabi Sabev.
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