site.btaUS Concerned about Situation in Israel, but Remains Committed to Challenges in Ukraine -Ambassador Kenneth Merten

US Ambassador to Bulgaria Kenneth Merten said in a Nova TV interview that the US is concerned about what has happened and what is happening in Israel, but remains committed to the challenges on the territory of Ukraine. When asked if it is possible that the situation in the Middle East will distract the US from Ukraine, the ambassador was adamant that Washington is able to deal with two crises at the same time.

Israel is a long-standing and extremely close ally of the United States. They have the right to defend themselves, said Merten. The US will monitor how they will find the best way to deal with the extremely sad and difficult situation they are in, he commented.

Merten noted that the growing areas of conflicts and wars in the world will not affect the supply of American F 16 fighter jets to Bulgaria. The first four should be delivered in early 2025. 

The Ambassador does not expect any delays. Prior and after his arrival to the country, Merten has been in regular contact with the companies involved and the US Department of Defence, and they have assured him that everything is going according to schedule.