Prime Minister Rosen Zhelyazkov announced to journalists during the opening of the last section of the "Europe" motorway that measures have been taken to protect Bulgarian airspace, especially in the northeastern part of the country.
He emphasized that these actions are part of a broader initiative to strengthen NATO"s southeastern flank, in the context of increased geopolitical instability in the region.
Zhelyazkov specified that the situation is being carefully monitored, following established protocol. "We must also guarantee the safety of civil aviation", added the Prime Minister, emphasizing the importance of protecting civilian air traffic.
He also expressed the opinion that the Russian Federation, aware of the intense air traffic over the Black Sea, will approach with increased caution and will strive to avoid incidents in this strategically important region.
This statement was made against the backdrop of escalating tensions in the region and the possibility of unforeseen situations.
The Prime Minister once again underlined Bulgaria"s commitment to the Alliance and the country"s readiness to guarantee the security of Bulgarian citizens and airspace. "We are very carefully monitoring within the framework of our commitments as the southeastern flank of the Alliance with a view to ensuring the security of our country, Bulgarian citizens, and aviation", he stated, assuring readiness for an adequate response if necessary.
In connection with recent events, Zhelyazkov also commented on the likely provocations, defining them as "tests to examine the Alliance"s readiness".
While he specified that in his opinion these actions are not of an offensive nature, he stressed that every provocation requires an adequate response, which necessitates vigilance and readiness to react at all levels.
This is a statement that can also be interpreted as an acknowledgement of the increased tension and the need for readiness to deal with a possible escalation.
The tension in the region was further heightened by the Romanian Ministry of Defence"s announcement of a violation of its airspace by a drone during a Russian attack on Ukraine.
This is a serious incident that highlights the instability and risks stemming from the military actions in Ukraine.
Earlier in the day, Poland reported the scrambling of fighter jets in a "preemptive_q_ operation due to the danger of drone strikes in nearby Ukrainian areas, which shows the growing alarm and increased vigilance among the Allies.
It is clear that regional security is seriously threatened by the current geopolitical situation, which necessitates enhanced protective measures and joint actions among NATO Allies.