https://www.bta.bg/en/news/world/rss Sun, 05 Apr 2026 19:58:55 +0300 en hourly 1 https://www.bta.bg/en/news/world/1099397-erdogan-to-putin-turkiye-approves-neither-attacks-on-iran-nor-iran-s-retaliatio https://www.bta.bg/en/news/world/1099397-erdogan-to-putin-turkiye-approves-neither-attacks-on-iran-nor-iran-s-retaliatio Fri, 03 Apr 2026 20:28:25 +0300 Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan spoke by phone with Russian President Vladimir Putin, the Turkish Presidency's Directorate of Communications reported on Friday. The leaders discussed Turkiye-Russia bilateral relations as well as regional and global matters.  Noting that Turkiye approves neither the attacks on Iran nor Iran's retaliation against the countries in the region, Erdogan stated that Turkiye continues its peace- and stability-oriented engagements with all relevant parties to ensure the war does not further spiral out of control. He pointed out that what he described as "the Netanyahu government's aggressive policies across the region" must be prevented, and stressed that Israel should not be allowed to take steps aimed at eroding Jerusalem's status.  Erdogan underscored that Turkiye is closely following the latest situation in Syria, that any step to strengthen Syria's stability would benefit both Turkiye and Russia, and that it is important that the gains achieved in Syria are not put at risk.  Highlighting the importance of preventing any interruption in Turkiye’s quest for a peaceful end to the Russia-Ukraine war, Erdogan further stressed that Turkiye urges all parties to refrain from steps that would result in an escalation, that attacks on civilian vessels in the Black Sea cause harm to the environment of stability, and that the Iran war should not be allowed to create additional conflict zones in the Russia-Ukraine crisis. World Valentin Evstatiev BTA correspondent Ayshe Sali https://www.bta.bg/en/news/world/1099341-nato-secretary-general-rutte-to-visit-united-states-april-8-12 https://www.bta.bg/en/news/world/1099341-nato-secretary-general-rutte-to-visit-united-states-april-8-12 Fri, 03 Apr 2026 19:00:50 +0300 NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte will pay a visit to the United States from April 8 to 12, the Alliance's press service reported on Friday. A meeting with President Donald Trump, Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth is scheduled to take place on the first day of the visit. Rutte will deliver a speech at the Ronald Reagan Institute and will participate in a meeting of the Bilderberg Group. World Valentin Evstatiev BTA correspondent Nikolay Jeliazkov https://www.bta.bg/en/news/world/1098381-bulgaria-and-ukraine-to-strengthen-cybersecurity-cooperation https://www.bta.bg/en/news/world/1098381-bulgaria-and-ukraine-to-strengthen-cybersecurity-cooperation Thu, 02 Apr 2026 18:39:59 +0300 Foreign Minister Nadezhda Neynsky visited the State Service for Special Communications and Information Protection during her visit to Ukraine. She received a detailed briefing on the organization’s activities and the tools it uses to protect the country against cyber and hybrid threats, the ministry’s said on Thursday. During the meeting, opportunities to deepen bilateral cooperation were discussed, particularly in the context of increasing risks in cyberspace and the information environment. Both countries expressed readiness for active exchange of experience and best practices in the field of security. World Petya Petrova https://www.bta.bg/en/news/world/1098372-foreign-minister-neynsky-participates-in-uk-hosted-videoconference-on-reopening- https://www.bta.bg/en/news/world/1098372-foreign-minister-neynsky-participates-in-uk-hosted-videoconference-on-reopening- Thu, 02 Apr 2026 18:30:00 +0300 Bulgarian Foreign Minister Nadezhda Neynsky, along with counterparts from over 30 countries, took part in a videoconference organized by UK Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper in connection with urgent measures and actions needed to restore freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz, the ministry said on Thursday. Minister Neynsky reaffirmed Bulgaria’s position, saying that Bulgaria supports all efforts to reopen the Strait of Hormuz for free navigation, but will not endorse or participate in any military actions to achieve this shared goal. At the meeting, the indiscriminate attacks by Iran against Gulf countries and the broader Middle East region were condemned, as well as Tehran’s actions to block and mine the Strait of Hormuz, which have led to a sharp rise in oil and energy prices and a significant negative impact on the global economy. Attention was drawn to Bahrain’s efforts to negotiate a new UN Security Council resolution building on Resolution No. 2817, as well as the initiative of the UN Secretary-General to ensure secure passage through the Strait of Hormuz, with particular emphasis on fertilizers and critical raw materials. All participants stressed that Iran must comply with international law and the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). Minister Neynsky expressed full solidarity and support for the Gulf countries, condemning Iran’s attacks on civilian infrastructure and commercial vessels. She highlighted Bulgaria’s support for applying diplomatic pressure on Iran, as well as for Bahrain’s efforts to negotiate a new UN Security Council resolution. She emphasized the importance of using all available diplomatic channels to de-escalate tensions, reopen the Strait of Hormuz, and ensure freedom of navigation, which would help mitigate the negative effects on the global economy. World Petya Petrova https://www.bta.bg/en/news/world/1097762-drone-attack-damages-civilian-port-infrastructure-in-odesa-region https://www.bta.bg/en/news/world/1097762-drone-attack-damages-civilian-port-infrastructure-in-odesa-region Thu, 02 Apr 2026 12:39:56 +0300 Civilian and port infrastructure has been damaged as a result of a nighttime drone attack in the Odesa region, the chair of the Odesa Regional Military Administration, Oleh Kiper, announced on his Telegram channel on Thursday. "Odesa region was again attacked by enemy drones on civilian infrastructure. Residential buildings and the port area were hit. In the residential sector, the facade, roof, and glazing of a private residential building were damaged, and an unfinished building was destroyed. A fire broke out in a gas pipe in an apartment building," the Regional Governor's statement reads. He added that a fire broke out in the port area in Chornomorsk as a result of the impact with containers and four cars catching fire, and two hangars having been damaged.  Bulgarians in Odesa Region number more than 150,000 and were the third largest population group in Ukraine in 2001, according to the official census. About 50,000 - 60,000 Bulgarians live in the city of Odesa. The largest compact Bulgarian population is concentrated in the Bolhrad, Izmail and Bilhorod-Dnistrovskyi districts. World Atanas Malakchiev BTA corresspondent Svetlana Dragneva https://www.bta.bg/en/news/bulgaria/1097692-iran-note-normal-diplomatic-practice-foreign-minister-neynsky-says https://www.bta.bg/en/news/bulgaria/1097692-iran-note-normal-diplomatic-practice-foreign-minister-neynsky-says Thu, 02 Apr 2026 10:57:48 +0300 Speaking on Nova TV on Thursday, Bulgaria’s caretaker Foreign Minister Nadezhda Neynsky said that a note is a normal diplomatic practice in a period of tensions and crises. "It is not a threat but a warning," she added, regarding a note sent by Iran to Bulgaria. "In such diplomatic notes during wartime there is always a warning that a country reserves the right to react if it considers its interests or national security to be threatened," Neynsky said. The Minister noted that Bulgaria maintains dialogue with Iran and bilateral diplomatic relations are intact. "We have repeatedly assured them that Bulgaria is not participating in the war, no combat aircraft are flying over our airspace and there is no refuelling over Bulgarian territory," Neynski stressed. According to her, the presence of US aircraft at Sofia Airport has been arranged with Washington through a bilateral note for training activities over a period of time. The Foreign Minister noted that the commitments undertaken apply to the territory of Bulgaria and are not related to combat operations. "The presence of these aircraft provides additional security for the airport, as they are heavily guarded," Neynsky said. The Foreign Minister noted that the decision had been taken before the present caretaker government assumed office on February 19. "The Bulgarian government is closely monitoring the circumstances related to the commitments undertaken with the US side, as well as Iran's concerns regarding these aircraft," she added. Neynsky also commented that there is no diplomatic practice for such notes to be made public. She said the Iranian note is dated March 18, and pointed out that Bulgaria is in the middle of an election campaign, suggesting that the publication of such a note may aim to create fear and tension in society. Commenting on the security agreement between Bulgaria and Ukraine signed by caretaker Prime Minister Andrey Gurov and Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, Neynsky said the memorandum of understanding is a political framework that has been discussed and worked on by several successive governments. She stressed that there are no legal obligations for Bulgaria and that any action the country wishes to undertake must go through Parliament. Neynsky also noted that there are no financial commitments for Bulgaria. She explained that the agreement does not fall under the Vienna Convention, which would require a parliamentary mandate and ratification. "The agreement does not impose obligations but creates opportunities for the development of the defence industry, job creation and high-tech cooperation," the Foreign Minister said. Neynsky added that attempts to discredit the caretaker government seek to suggest that the status quo, although not ideal, protects citizens. Asked about the British Prime Minister inviting Bulgaria and 35 other countries to talks on clearing the Strait of Hormuz, Neynsky said this is definitely not an invitation for a military operation. She added that she will participate in the meeting. When the issue of the Strait of Hormuz was raised, US President Donald Trump invited countries with the potential and interest to help. "We stated back then that we do not have such potential and the National Assembly does not support Bulgarian military participation in clearing the Strait of Hormuz," Neynsky said. She noted that Donald Trump is seeking NATO support for the war in Iran, but NATO has clearly stated that it is not participating in the war. Bulgaria Veneta Litkova Yoana Hristova https://www.bta.bg/en/news/bulgaria/1097434-bulgarian-pm-us-ambassador-to-greece-discuss-opportunities-for-accelerated-deve https://www.bta.bg/en/news/bulgaria/1097434-bulgarian-pm-us-ambassador-to-greece-discuss-opportunities-for-accelerated-deve Wed, 01 Apr 2026 18:42:00 +0300 Bulgarian Prime Minister Andrey Gurov and US Ambassador to Greece Kimberly Guilfoyle met on Wednesday to discuss opportunities for the accelerated development of the Vertical Gas Corridor as a key element of energy and economic security in Southeastern Europe, the government information service said on Facebook. The discussion highlighted the importance of the corridor, linking Greece, Bulgaria, Romania, Moldova and Ukraine, for diversifying energy supplies, increasing market liquidity, and strengthening transatlantic cooperation, including through greater access to US liquefied natural gas. The sides also explored opportunities to expand the corridor beyond gas supply diversification, into nuclear energy, secure supply chains, digital infrastructure and technologies, under the Pax Silica initiative. Bulgaria expressed readiness to play an active role as a regional platform for strategic infrastructure development and for supporting Ukraine's recovery through logistical and investment connections in the Black Sea region, the government said. The meeting noted progress in dialogue between Bulgarian institutions and the US, including talks with the US Special Presidential Coordinator for Global Energy Security, aimed at enhancing energy partnership and supply security. The meeting confirmed the shared commitment of Bulgaria and the US to building sustainable, diversified and secure economic and energy ties in the region. President Iliana Iotova also met with the US Ambassador to discuss topics from the bilateral dialogue. Bulgaria Diana Dukovska Petra Kurteva https://www.bta.bg/en/news/bulgaria/1097420-president-iotova-us-ambassador-to-greece-guilfoyle-discuss-bulgaria-s-role-in-r https://www.bta.bg/en/news/bulgaria/1097420-president-iotova-us-ambassador-to-greece-guilfoyle-discuss-bulgaria-s-role-in-r Wed, 01 Apr 2026 18:38:00 +0300 Bulgaria has the potential and ambition to play an active role in the energy security of Southeastern Europe, President Iliana Iotova said after meeting US Ambassador to Greece Kimberly Guilfoyle, the President's press secretariat said here Wednesday. The talks focused on regional energy diversification and were part of Guilfoyle’s visit to Bulgaria after a trip to Romania, the President’s administration said. A main topic at the meeting was regional energy diversification and the implementation of the Vertical Gas Corridor, which links Greece, Bulgaria, Romania, Hungary, Slovakia, Ukraine and Moldova. Iotova said rising US liquefied natural gas supplies to Greece, together with Bulgaria’s access to Greek terminals, give Bulgaria an opportunity to establish itself as a key factor in the region’s energy diversification and in Europe’s broader energy security. Iotova also said the development of Corridor No. 8, linking the Adriatic Sea and the Black Sea, would improve transport connectivity and bring economic benefits to the Balkans. She also pointed to the need to improve North-South transport links, including by building more bridge facilities between Bulgaria and Romania. Iotova and Guilfoyle also discussed cooperation in defence, innovation and high technologies. Earlier on Wednesday, caretaker PM Gurov also met with Guilfoyle to discuss topics from the bilateral dialogue. Bulgaria Kaloyan Kirilov https://www.bta.bg/en/news/world/1096910-parliament-declares-february-14-as-bulgarian-polish-friendship-and-cooperation-d https://www.bta.bg/en/news/world/1096910-parliament-declares-february-14-as-bulgarian-polish-friendship-and-cooperation-d Wed, 01 Apr 2026 11:48:13 +0300 On Wednesday, Parliament adopted a decision declaring February 14 as Bulgarian–Polish Friendship and Cooperation Day. The decision was passed unanimously, with 165 votes in favor.  The decision takes into account the joint initiative of the presidents of Bulgaria and Poland, presented in 2025. It expresses a desire to develop and strengthen the long-standing traditionally good relations between the two nations, including interparliamentary dialogue, and emphasizes the significance of the contribution of Cyril and Methodius to the spiritual unity of European civilization.  The proposal to declare February 14 as Bulgarian–Polish Friendship and Cooperation Day was submitted by members of the Bulgaria-Poland Friendship Group in the National Assembly. The date was chosen because, on February 14, the Bulgarian Orthodox Church commemorates the Dormition of St. Constantine Cyril the Philosopher. On this same day, Pope John Paul II proclaimed the Holy Brothers Cyril and Methodius co-patrons of Europe, the sponsors note in their reasoning.  The Bulgarian Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressed a positive opinion on the draft decision during a meeting of the Parliamentary Foreign Policy Committee, noting that the day of the death of Cyril the Philosopher is observed in both the Orthodox and Catholic Christian traditions.  World Metodi Yordanov Teodora Tsaneva https://www.bta.bg/en/news/world/1096638-bulgaria-reaffirms-support-for-ukraine-at-informal-eu-foreign-affairs-council https://www.bta.bg/en/news/world/1096638-bulgaria-reaffirms-support-for-ukraine-at-informal-eu-foreign-affairs-council Tue, 31 Mar 2026 20:55:00 +0300 Bulgaria reaffirmed its support for Ukraine and its commitment to the country's post-war reconstruction during an informal meeting of the foreign ministers of European Union member states, held with the participation of the Ukrainian leadership, the Bulgarian Foreign Ministry reported on Tuesday. Bulgaria's caretaker Minister of Foreign Affairs Nadezhda Neynsky participated in the meeting in Ukraine. During the forum, Bulgaria's consistent support for the sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity of Ukraine was confirmed, as well as its commitment to achieving a just and lasting peace. Minister Neynsky emphasized the importance of international accountability for violations of international law as a key element of any sustainable peace process. In the course of the discussions, the EU's top diplomats highlighted the need to continue international support for Ukraine's resilience and reconstruction, with a focus on the reintegration of veterans as a crucial component of post-war recovery. Bulgaria also stressed the need to maintain focus on Ukraine in the context of current global challenges and confirmed its readiness to continue contributing, including within the framework of EU and NATO efforts, to support the country. On Monday in Kyiv, Neynsky noted in a meeting with her Ukrainian counterpart, Andrii Sybiha, that Ukraine must become a full member of the European Union. World Valentin Evstatiev Petra Kurteva https://www.bta.bg/en/news/world/1096623-parliament-chair-nazaryan-tells-ukrainian-counterpart-bulgaria-stands-firmly-by- https://www.bta.bg/en/news/world/1096623-parliament-chair-nazaryan-tells-ukrainian-counterpart-bulgaria-stands-firmly-by- Tue, 31 Mar 2026 20:52:26 +0300 Bulgaria remains unwavering in its support for Ukraine’s independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity within its internationally recognized borders, National Assembly Chair Raya Nazaryan told Chair of the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine Ruslan Stefanchuk, the Parliament press service said here Tuesday. Nazaryan was in Ukraine for the second parliamentary summit in Bucha, where she also addressed the forum organized by the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine. At the meeting, she said Bulgaria’s support would continue for as long as needed and within its means. Bulgaria’s solidarity with Ukraine and the Ukrainian people has been confirmed in seven separate National Assembly decisions, Nazaryan added. The unlawful full-scale war must end in a comprehensive, just and lasting peace based on international law, Nazaryan said. Bulgaria welcomes all efforts aimed at securing a lasting peace settlement based on the principle that nothing concerning Ukraine should be decided without Ukraine, she added. Nazaryan noted that joint efforts could also be expanded to cover Ukraine’s long-term recovery and reconstruction, including infrastructure development and the country’s economic recovery. Nazaryan recalled that Bulgaria is providing substantial humanitarian aid to people temporarily displaced from Ukraine. A total of 197,580 people have received temporary protection, 61,000 of whom have settled in Bulgaria, she said. The number of Ukrainian pupils enrolled in Bulgarian schools in the current school year is 5,379, Nazaryan added. Nazaryan, together with the participants in the second parliamentary summit in Ukraine, paid tribute to the victims of the Bucha massacre at a memorial ceremony at St Andrew Church. World Kaloyan Kirilov https://www.bta.bg/en/news/bulgaria/1096529-bulgarian-and-german-foreign-ministers-discuss-eu-enlargement-and-institutional- https://www.bta.bg/en/news/bulgaria/1096529-bulgarian-and-german-foreign-ministers-discuss-eu-enlargement-and-institutional- Tue, 31 Mar 2026 18:56:30 +0300 The foreign ministers of Bulgaria and Germany on Tuesday discussed the enlargement of the European Union and the institutional reforms required for it. Nadezhda Neynsky and Johann Wadephul spoke during an informal EU Foreign Affairs Council, held in Ukraine, Neynsky's ministry reported. Bulgaria's chief diplomat underlined her country's consistent support for the European perspective of the Western Balkan countries, Ukraine and Moldova, saying that progress should be based on results achieved and adherence to established criteria. Neynsky stated: "We highly value Germany's support in the modernisation and rearmament of the Bulgarian armed forces, including within the European Sky Shield initiative." The ministers stressed the strategic partnership-based relations between Bulgaria and Germany and the deepening of their cooperation in fields such as the defence industry, infrastructure, energy, innovation and scientific research. Neynsky is in Ukraine on a Bulgarian delegation led by Prime Minister Andrey Gurov. On Monday, Gurov and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy signed a 10-year bilateral security agreement. Bulgaria Valentin Evstatiev Nikolay Trifonov https://www.bta.bg/en/news/world/1096321-parliament-chair-nazaryan-urges-accountability-recovery-and-lasting-peace-for-u https://www.bta.bg/en/news/world/1096321-parliament-chair-nazaryan-urges-accountability-recovery-and-lasting-peace-for-u Tue, 31 Mar 2026 15:47:00 +0300 Bulgaria's National Assembly Chair Raya Nazaryan called for stronger international accountability, accelerated postwar recovery efforts, and a lasting peace for Ukraine during the Second Bucha Parliamentary Summit, held in the Ukrainian capital, as quoted by the National Assebmly's press office on Monday.  Nazaryan, who attended the forum at the invitation of Ukraine’s Verkhovna Rada and was welcomed in Kiyv on Monday by its Chairman Ruslan Stefanchuk, emphasized that justice for the victims of the Bucha atrocities must remain a priority.  “We will insist on the creation of international mechanisms to hold accountable those responsible for the killing of hundreds of innocent civilians in Bucha,” Nazaryan said. “The events in Bucha shocked the world with their brutality and total disregard for humanitarian norms.” She joined parliamentary leaders from EU member states, Moldova, and the United Kingdom, as well as representatives of the European Parliament and the parliamentary assemblies of NATO and the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE). Participants paid tribute to the victims of the Bucha massacre during a memorial ceremony at St. Andrew’s Church. Nazaryan stressed that the crimes committed there were not isolated incidents but part of a broader pattern of violence by Russian forces across Ukraine. “No one can remain indifferent to what happened in Bucha,” she said, adding that combating impunity must be a cornerstone of any credible and sustainable peace agreement. Nazaryan also underscored the importance of looking ahead. “Our primary goal is to achieve a just and lasting peace that provides reliable security guarantees for Ukraine,” she said, calling for immediate work on the country’s postwar reconstruction.  She urged support for rebuilding Ukraine’s economy, noting that Bulgaria backs initiatives to restore railway connectivity between the two countries and is advancing the expansion of the Vertical Gas Corridor, which is expected to enhance Ukraine’s energy security in the coming winter season.  “Bulgaria stands with you not only in today’s difficult times. We share common dreams for the future, and we will achieve them together,” she told Ukrainian lawmakers. Nazaryan reaffirmed that Bulgaria’s support for Ukraine remains unwavering, highlighting that the Bulgarian parliament has adopted seven decisions to provide assistance to the country and its people.  Speaking separately, Bulgaria’s caretaker Foreign Minister Nadezhda Neynsky said Bucha stands as a stark symbol of the consequences of war. “Bucha shows what Putin leaves behind - killings, ruins, and atrocities,” she said during the commemoration of more than 500 civilians killed in March 2022, quoted by her Ministry.  The Bucha summit focused on humanitarian challenges stemming from the ongoing war and on energy security, particularly in light of continued attacks on Ukraine’s critical infrastructure.  World Metodi Yordanov https://www.bta.bg/en/news/world/1096290-bulgaria-calls-for-ukraine-s-postwar-recovery-and-lasting-peace-parliament-chai https://www.bta.bg/en/news/world/1096290-bulgaria-calls-for-ukraine-s-postwar-recovery-and-lasting-peace-parliament-chai Tue, 31 Mar 2026 15:34:07 +0300 Efforts toward Ukraine’s postwar recovery must begin now, alongside support for building a modern and competitive economy, Bulgaria’s National Assembly Chair Raya Nazaryan said at the Second Bucha Summit in Ukraine, the National Assembly's press office reported on Tuesday. “Our primary goal is to achieve a just and lasting peace that provides reliable security guarantees for Ukraine,” Nazaryan stated. The forum, organized by Ukraine’s Verkhovna Rada, brings together parliamentary leaders from EU member states, Moldova, the United Kingdom, as well as representatives of the European Parliament and the parliamentary assemblies of NATO and the OSCE. Nazaryan stressed the need to start working immediately on Ukraine’s reconstruction and to assist the Ukrainian people in developing a modern, competitive economy. She noted that Bulgaria supports initiatives to restore railway connectivity between the two countries.  “We are making good progress on expanding the Vertical Gas Corridor, which will also supply Ukraine and improve its energy security in the next heating season,” she added. Addressing Ukrainian lawmakers, Nazaryan said: “Bulgaria stands with you not only in today’s difficult times. We share common dreams for the future, and we will achieve them together.” She described Bucha as “a place for humble silence in memory of the victims, but also a place to cry out against brutality and inhumanity.” Nazaryan emphasized that the killing of innocent civilians, in violation of international humanitarian law, will never be forgotten. “The faces in the victims’ portraits oblige us to reaffirm our support for strong international accountability mechanisms,” she said, adding that combating impunity remains a cornerstone of any credible and sustainable peace agreement.  Nazaryan reiterated that Bulgaria’s support for Ukraine remains unwavering, noting that the Bulgarian Parliament has adopted seven decisions providing assistance to Ukraine and its people.  Earlier in the day, Nazaryan and other summit participants paid tribute to the victims of the Bucha massacre during a memorial ceremony at St. Andrew’s Church. World Nelly Zheleva Metodi Yordanov https://www.bta.bg/en/news/world/1096255-parliament-chair-nazaryan-calls-for-international-accountability-mechanisms-over https://www.bta.bg/en/news/world/1096255-parliament-chair-nazaryan-calls-for-international-accountability-mechanisms-over Tue, 31 Mar 2026 15:18:19 +0300 “We will insist on the creation of international mechanisms to hold accountable those responsible for the killing of hundreds of innocent civilians in Bucha,” Bulgaria’s National Assembly Chair Raya Nazaryan said during her visit to Ukraine, quoted by the Bulgarian Parliament's press service on Tuesday.  “The events in Bucha shocked the entire world with their brutality and complete disregard for all humanitarian norms. I am here to show that we will not forget the murder of hundreds of innocent civilians and will push for international mechanisms to ensure accountability,” Nazaryan stated. She joined participants in the Second Bucha Summit in honoring the victims of the massacre during a memorial ceremony at St. Andrew’s Church, the press release said. Nazaryan emphasized that no one can remain indifferent to the events that unfolded in Bucha. She added that “the crimes committed by the aggressor in Bucha are not isolated incidents, but part of a broader pattern of systematic violence carried out by Russian forces across Ukraine.” She expressed confidence that efforts to establish robust international accountability mechanisms would address the full range of violations.  The Second Bucha Summit, organized by Ukraine’s Verkhovna Rada, brings together speakers and senior parliamentary representatives from EU member states, Moldova, and the United Kingdom, as well as delegates from the European Parliament, the NATO Parliamentary Assembly, and the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly. “Bucha shows what Putin leaves behind - killings, ruins, and atrocities,” Bulgaria’s caretaker Foreign Minister Nadezhda Neynsky said. She also took part in the memorial ceremony honoring more than 500 Ukrainian civilians killed by Russian troops in March 2022, according to the Foreign Ministry.  World Metodi Yordanov Nelly Zheleva https://www.bta.bg/en/news/world/1096168-european-commission-representation-in-bulgaria-marks-anniversary-of-schengen-acc https://www.bta.bg/en/news/world/1096168-european-commission-representation-in-bulgaria-marks-anniversary-of-schengen-acc Tue, 31 Mar 2026 14:45:34 +0300 Bulgaria and Romania joined the Schengen area by air and sea on March 31, 2024, and as of January 1, 2025, controls at internal land borders between the two countries were also lifted, the European Commission Representation in Bulgaria said in a Facebook post on Tuesday. The post adds that full membership in the Schengen area has brought more opportunities for travel without border checks, easier trade, lower costs for businesses, as well as improved control, security and protection of the European Union's external borders. World Yoanna Vodenova Marin Kolev https://www.bta.bg/en/news/world/1096093-ec-urges-eu-member-states-to-coordinate-measures-to-ensure-oil-supply-security https://www.bta.bg/en/news/world/1096093-ec-urges-eu-member-states-to-coordinate-measures-to-ensure-oil-supply-security Tue, 31 Mar 2026 13:36:52 +0300 The European Commission (EC) Tuesday urged EU Member States to coordinate measures to ensure the security of oil supply amid developments in the Middle East. Considering the market volatility stemming from the conflict in the Middle East and the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, the Commission is calling on Member States to make timely and coordinated preparations, the EC said in a press release.  The European Union is well prepared, thanks to the obligation on Member States to maintain oil stocks and to have contingency plans in response to security of supply incidents. EU Member States are also contributing - for approximately 20% - to the release of over 400 million barrels of emergency oil stocks coordinated by the International Energy Agency (IEA). In a letter addressed to all EU Energy Ministers, EU Commissioner for Energy and Housing Dan Jorgensen urged the Member States to make full use of the meetings under the Oil Coordination Group and Energy Union Task Force Security to ensure good coordination, as well as to consider the promotion of demand saving measures, with particular attention to the transport sector, as advised by the IEA in its 10-points plan to cut oil use. Robust monitoring, rapid information-sharing mechanisms and coordination remain essential. Any emergency risks or material changes in oil supply and industry conditions, including commercial stocks, should be tracked and notified to the Commission to ensure continuous assessment and coordinated action. In the same spirit, Member States should refrain from taking measures that may increase fuel consumption, limit the free flow of petroleum products or disincentivize EU refinery output. They should also consult with their neighbouring Member States and the Commission to preserve EU-wide coherence and the functioning of the internal market. To safeguard the availability of petroleum products on the EU market, any non-emergency refinery maintenance should be deferred. At the same time, increasing the uptake of biofuels could help substitute for fossil petroleum products and alleviate pressure on the market. An informal video conference of EU energy ministers is scheduled to take place on Tuesday to discuss a coordinated EU response to the current energy situation. World BTA correspondent Nikolay Jeliazkov Yoana Vodenicharova https://www.bta.bg/en/news/world/1095892-milk-prices-fall-in-bulgaria-while-production-costs-rise-agriculture-minister-s https://www.bta.bg/en/news/world/1095892-milk-prices-fall-in-bulgaria-while-production-costs-rise-agriculture-minister-s Tue, 31 Mar 2026 12:16:17 +0300 Milk in Bulgaria is falling in purchase price, while production costs continue to rise, caretaker Agriculture and Food Minister Ivan Hristanov said at the EU Agriculture and Fisheries Council session in Brussels, the Ministry’s press service reported on Tuesday. Hristanov noted that prices have been declining since the beginning of 2025 and the trend has not stopped. "We see it continuing in the first months of 2026. At the same time, an even more worrying development is emerging. Small farms and producers in more difficult regions simply cannot sell their milk, and it is being refused for purchase. The reason is simple: cheap raw materials from abroad are entering the market and distorting it," the Minister explained.  Hristanov said that this comes at a time when electricity and feed costs are rising. "Farmers are being squeezed from both sides. That is why we clearly stated that in such situations, Europe must use all available tools, including reserve funds if necessary. Most importantly, the measure for temporarily voluntary reduction of deliveries should be applied. This is a fast way to stabilise the market," he stressed. On the future of EU agricultural policy, Hristanov emphasized Bulgaria’s firm stance. "The Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) must remain an independent policy with a real budget. You cannot demand food security while cutting support. Given current prices and instability, farmers need predictability - direct payments, coupled support, and investments. This is not a bonus, it is a condition for the sector’s survival. Another important point is to eliminate disparities between countries. Bulgarian farmers cannot receive less for the same work," he said. Hristanov also highlighted the need to stop signing agreements "piecemeal", without considering the overall effect. "When you accumulate several such agreements, the impact on sensitive sectors becomes serious. Second, border controls must be real, not just on paper. The quality and safety of imports are not negotiable," he added. Regarding fisheries and aquaculture, Hristanov said that Bulgaria supports the EU’s direction, but the domestic reality is difficult. "The sector operates with old vessels, an uncertain environment, and specific conditions in the Black Sea. At the same time, it is told to modernize and move toward energy-efficient solutions. This costs money, a lot of money, and cannot happen without support. That is why we insist on changes to the European fund to provide real assistance. Also, payments must be made quickly, not delayed for months. And for small-scale fishermen: if we do not ensure access to funding without unnecessary bureaucracy, this sector will simply disappear," the Minister said. On Monday, Hristanov met with representatives of Copa-Cogeca, the leading organization of European farmers and agricultural cooperatives, and reaffirmed Bulgaria’s support for a strong, autonomous CAP after 2027, with its own budget and two clearly defined pillars. World Tatiana Marinova Ivona Velichkova https://www.bta.bg/en/news/world/1095864-ukrainian-parliament-chairman-stefanchuk-welcomes-bulgarian-national-assembly-ch https://www.bta.bg/en/news/world/1095864-ukrainian-parliament-chairman-stefanchuk-welcomes-bulgarian-national-assembly-ch Tue, 31 Mar 2026 10:09:00 +0300 The Chairman of Ukraine's Verkhovna Rada [unicameral parliament], Ruslan Stefanchuk, welcomed the Chair of Bulgaria’s National Assembly, Raya Nazaryan, in Kyiv. She is set to participate in the the Second Bucha Summit in the Ukrainian capital, the Bulgarian National Assembly reported Tuesday.  The forum, organized by the Verkhovna Rada, will begin with a memorial ceremony at St. Andrew’s Church in honor of the victims of the Bucha massacre. Nazaryan’s agenda also includes meetings at the Ukrainian legislature in Kyiv. The event will bring together speakers and leadership members of national parliaments from EU member states, Moldova and the United Kingdom, as well as the European Parliament, the NATO Parliamentary Assembly and the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly.. Key topics on the agenda include humanitarian challenges caused by the ongoing military aggression and energy security in the context of attacks on Ukraine’s critical infrastructure.  World Metodi Yordanov https://www.bta.bg/en/news/world/1095801-bulgaria-s-defence-minister-confers-with-ukrainian-counterpart-on-defence-cooper https://www.bta.bg/en/news/world/1095801-bulgaria-s-defence-minister-confers-with-ukrainian-counterpart-on-defence-cooper Tue, 31 Mar 2026 08:56:00 +0300 During the official visit of the Bulgarian delegation to Kyiv, led by Prime Minister Andrey Gurov, Defence Minister Atanas Zapryanov met with his Ukrainian counterpart Mykhailo Fedorov, Bulgarian Defence Ministry reported on Tuesday.  The Ministers expressed satisfaction with the government-level 10-year security agreement signed on Monday by Bulgarian Prime Minister Andrey Gurov and Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, which provides a broad framework for cooperation, including in defence and innovation, research and development, the Ministry said.  During the meeting, Zapryanov said that Bulgaria will continue to provide political support to Ukraine in its efforts to achieve a just peace. The meeting highlighted the Bulgarian Defence Innovation Centre’s role in developing defence capabilities and technologies. The possibilities for testing Bulgarian technologies at the Ukrainian BRAVE1 centre were also discussed. The Ministers also discussed the development of defence capabilities under the EU’s SAFE instrument, as well as potential cooperation in the production of 155 mm artillery shells.  Attending the meeting were Bulgarian Deputy Defence Minister Zlatin Krastev and his Ukrainian counterpart Serhii Boyev.  World Tatiana Marinova