Bulgarian territory is not being used in any way - even logistically - to support the United States operation in Iran. This was stated by the acting Minister of Defense Atanas Zapryanov in the program “120 minutes“ on bTV, quoted by BTA.
He explained that official notes were sent by the US government regarding the stay of the American aircraft in Bulgaria, specifying the purpose for which they are arriving and for what period they will stay.
According to him, there may be up to 15 tanker aircraft in the country for refueling, which are part of the US strategic fleet in Europe and support NATO operations. The personnel serving them is approximately 350 people. Zapryanov stressed that these planes have no tasks related to the American operation in Iran.
The minister also indicated that talks are currently underway with the American side and the possibility of moving the planes from the Sofia airport is being discussed. There is no decision on this issue yet, but when it is made, it will be announced publicly.
Zapryanov added that if the US sends a note to conduct a military mission on Bulgarian territory, the issue will be submitted by the government for consideration in parliament.
According to him, the fulfillment of Bulgaria's allied obligations and efforts to strengthen collective defense do not make the country a target for the Iranian leadership.
The minister also emphasized that with regard to missile defense, Bulgaria can fully rely on NATO.