Iliana Iotova: The Bulgarian Army needs urgent modernization and investment

06.05.2026 | Defense

Vice President Iliana Iotova emphasized the need for military modernization and support for personnel in uniform. She also commented on energy security, Bulgaria's role in the region, and the need for a more confident foreign policy.

Снимка от KGG1951, Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 3.0)

The army as a symbol of honor and the future

On the occasion of the Day of Bravery, Vice President Iliana Iotova outlined four key priorities for the development of the Bulgarian Armed Forces. According to her, modernization is imperative due to our country's geographical position between two conflicts.

"The strength of an alliance is the sum of the strength of all who compose it," Iotova emphasized regarding our role in NATO and the EU.

Four pillars for a strong army:

Geopolitics and energy independence

Iotova highlighted the "Vertical Gas Corridor" project, which is of critical importance to Bulgaria following the interruption of supplies from Russia. She added that our country must pursue a more confident and independent foreign policy, abandoning the previous passive stance.

The future of governance

Regarding the upcoming regular government, the Vice President called for honesty and an end to "laboratory" solutions. She confirmed that the presidential institution will remain an active corrective to all branches of government in the country.