EU discusses Ukraine and Middle East at foreign ministers meeting

On August 11, 2025, an informal video conference meeting of the European Union's "Foreign Affairs" Council was held, in which Bulgarian Foreign Minister Georg Georgiev participated. The meeting focused on several key topics of global importance, including the ongoing Russian aggression in Ukraine and the escalating conflict in the Middle East.

The Situation in Ukraine

A central theme of the discussions was the situation in Ukraine and diplomatic efforts to end Russian aggression. The ministers discussed coordination with transatlantic partners in the context of the upcoming meeting between the presidents of the USA and Russia in Alaska - an event that is awaited with great interest by the international community. The meeting participants reaffirmed the EU's determination to continue providing comprehensive support to Ukraine.

In his speech, Minister Georgiev welcomed the commitment of US President Donald Trump to end military actions and achieve peace through negotiations. The Bulgarian Foreign Minister emphasized the need for a sustainable and fair peace agreement, stating:

Any peace agreement needs to be sustainable and fair, respecting the principles of international law and the rules-based international order. Until this is achieved, our comprehensive support for Ukraine will continue. Peace is not simply the absence of war, but should be the foundation for long-term stability, security, and prosperity for both Ukraine and Europe as a whole.

Georgiev emphasized the effectiveness of the sanctions imposed against Russia and stressed the need for their continuation and enhancement until the cessation of Russian military aggression against Ukraine. This position reflects the EU's common stance on maintaining pressure on Russia to end the conflict.

Escalation in the Middle East

The second key topic of the meeting was the escalating situation in the Middle East, particularly in the Gaza Strip. The ministers discussed the urgent need to accelerate the delivery of humanitarian aid to the civilian population in the region, which is in a critical situation.

On this issue, Minister Georgiev expressed Bulgaria's position:

Bulgaria expresses deep concern about the expansion of the military operation in the Gaza Strip. We call for the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages held by "Hamas" in inhumane conditions, which would allow for the continuation of efforts towards a ceasefire. Humanitarian aid intended for the residents of the Gaza Strip, who are in critical condition, should be increased immediately.

The Bulgarian Foreign Minister reaffirmed our country's commitment to work together with EU partners to achieve a lasting solution to the conflict in the Middle East, based on the two-state principle. This demonstrates the consistency of Bulgarian foreign policy in support of the peace process in the region.

The meeting of the "Foreign Affairs" Council demonstrated the EU's unity on key foreign policy issues and the readiness of member states to work together to resolve global crises. Bulgaria's participation in these discussions underlines our country's active role in shaping the EU's common foreign policy and its commitment to international stability and security.