Democratic Bulgaria (DB) has tabled a draft decision in parliament to set up an inter-agency unit under the government's Security Council. The unit would track the economic risks from instability in the Black Sea. DB MPs presented the proposal at a briefing in the lobby of the National Assembly.
The party is also tabling a separate decision for a compensation of 20 euro cents because of high fuel prices.
Under the draft, the unit would study the economic risks for citizens and industry and monitor goods whose import and export become unaffordable. Where needed, it would set up compensation schemes so the Bulgarian economy is not badly hit.
DB will talk to parliament's leadership today. The party wants the draft sent to the transport committee, which meets at 14:30. It hopes the decision on the unit will pass this plenary week.
Ivaylo Mirchev of DB's parliamentary group said that in recent weeks Russia has been losing captured territory in Ukraine, while Putin is escalating the war with the clear aim of closing the Black Sea to merchant ships.
Mirchev spoke of a "shield" in the Black Sea to protect commercial shipping. He believes this is only possible if Bulgaria, Romania and Turkey work closely together within NATO. He asked the alliance for stronger radar surveillance, extra forces on the coasts of the three countries, and fighter jets and helicopters to counter drones. Moratoriums and memoranda are not the answer, Mirchev said, nor are "any other ideas that we see the doves of peace waving".
Yordan Yordanov of DB urged the Council of Ministers to handle the crisis properly. He said the Black Sea has become a huge zone of uncertainty, bringing risks for Bulgaria's economy and industry.
MP Bozhidar Bozhanov said the government must lead the defence of the Black Sea coast, and Bulgaria should not ask for moratoriums and memoranda on things that are already banned anyway. "Bulgaria should get out of the corner it has pushed itself into with this government and lead the process," he said.
"It is clear who is behind the drone attacks, just as it is clear who is behind the Starlink sabotage," Bozhanov added.
For the fuel compensation, DB proposes that the money come from Lukoil's windfall profits and extra VAT revenue. The party will also push for a full package of compensation.
Bozhanov said DB had wanted the National Assembly to set a clear formula for the minimum wage. That was not done, and the government was given a "blank cheque".
Bozhanov added that DB is waiting to hear what the budget deficit will be, because it was not stated yesterday.