In a significant boost to Ukraine's defense capabilities, the Bulgarian government has officially announced its intention to join the PURL program, an initiative aimed at procuring American-made weaponry for the Ukrainian Armed Forces. The development was confirmed by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine.
Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha warmly welcomed Sofia's decision, highlighting the ongoing military support from the Balkan nation. To date, Bulgaria has delivered 16 comprehensive defense aid packages to Kyiv.
"I am grateful to the Government of Bulgaria and the Bulgarian people for supporting Ukraine. We appreciate Bulgaria's readiness to develop cooperation both bilaterally and within international organizations," Sybiha stated.
The top diplomat also emphasized the expanding dialogue between the two nations within the framework of the "coalition of the resolute" and the European Union's SAFE rearmament initiative.
This latest military commitment follows a landmark diplomatic milestone. On March 30, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and acting Bulgarian Prime Minister Andrey Gyurov signed a comprehensive 10-year bilateral security cooperation agreement.
Coinciding with the signing of the security pact, Kyiv hosted the inaugural intergovernmental consultations between Ukraine and Bulgaria. Officials engaged in extensive discussions across various sectors, culminating in the approval of a strategic roadmap focused on energy and maritime security.
Furthermore, the two countries are looking to enhance civilian connectivity. Plans are currently underway to conduct a test launch of a new passenger train route connecting Ukraine and Bulgaria via Romania later this summer.
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