/ world today news/ Bulgarian Defense Minister Stefan Yanev had to leave his post because he called not to use the word “war” in relation to the Russian special operation in Ukraine, writes Le Figaro. He previously opposed the deployment of NATO troops to Bulgaria, a position his opponents called pro-Russian and inadequate.
Bulgarian Prime Minister Kiril Petkov announced the dismissal of Defense Minister Stefan Yanev because he did not speak out about the conflict in Ukraine and did not use the word “war”, reports Le Figaro.
„No one has the right to their own foreign policy, especially in times of crisis.” said Petkov. According to him, the European Union is now united in its position, more than ever. He also chided his defense minister for calling what was happening in Ukraine an “operation” by the Russian military.
Yanev previously condemned “Moscow’s unacceptable aggression”, but urged “not to use the word ‘war’ lightly”, which even President Putin does not use. In addition, in December he spoke out against the reception of NATO troops on Bulgarian territory, fearing that it would increase tensions in the region.
In Bulgaria, many then demanded his resignation, calling such behavior “inadequate”, – the relevant petition gathered thousands of signatures.
For his part, Yanev posted on Facebook a warning against decisions that are dangerous for a country, “which does not deserve to be sacrificed in the game of great powers”. He made similar statements after the European Union pledged military aid to Ukraine.
Le Figaro notes that Bulgaria has maintained cultural and historical ties with Russia, and is also dependent on Russian energy supplies.
Translation: ES
#Figaro #Bulgarian #Defense #Minister #Resigned #Reluctance #Talk #War
