Bulgaria's geopolitical role in Southeastern Europe gains new dimensions in 2025, as the country becomes a critically important ally for Ukraine during the ongoing military conflict.
The massive Russian attack on gas infrastructure in the Odessa region on August 6 posed another challenge to regional energy security. The Transbalkan Gas Corridor, which connects Greece, Bulgaria, Romania, Moldova, and Ukraine, demonstrated its strategic importance by starting direct transmission of Azerbaijani gas to the Ukrainian market.
This route not only diversifies energy supplies but also reduces critical dependence on Russian sources. For Bulgaria, this means affirming its position as a European transit and geopolitical bridge with significant economic and strategic potential.
In the nuclear sector, Sofia demonstrated an extremely pragmatic approach by preserving two nuclear reactors originally intended for sale to Kyiv. This decision illustrates a balanced policy that takes into account both national interests and international commitments.
The humanitarian dimension of support gains exceptional significance. Bulgaria has sheltered over 100,000 Ukrainian refugees, which poses a serious challenge to the country's social systems and migration policy.
From May 2025, humanitarian assistance is provided under stricter conditions, but the status of temporary protection was extended until March 2027. This decision aims to ensure smoother integration and support for the most vulnerable groups among Ukrainian refugees.
Bulgaria's complex role as an energy partner and humanitarian center outlines new horizons for regional cooperation and solidarity in the context of contemporary geopolitical challenges.