Ukrainian, Bulgarian defense ministers discuss efforts to repel Russia's armed aggression

Ukrainian Defense Minister Oleksii Reznikov has met with his Bulgarian counterpart Dimitar Stoyanov to discuss bilateral cooperation in the defense sphere and the provision of necessary assistance from Bulgaria to Ukraine.

That's according to the press service of the Ministry of Defense of Ukraine, Ukrinform reports.

"I am pleased to welcome Minister Dimitar Stoyanov. Bulgaria was among the countries to take in Ukrainian citizens and children who have been forced to flee the war started by the aggressor. The Republic of Bulgaria also helped our defenders with helmets, body armor, first aid kits for wounded soldiers, etc. We discussed the details of further aid that will strengthen our army. We continue to support the military and political dialogue between our friendly countries," Reznikov said.

Stoyanov, in turn, said that the Bulgarian parliament had supported the idea of providing military aid to Ukraine, which can be implemented in two ways. The first is the provision of military assets. The second is through the contribution to the European Union Military Assistance Mission to help strengthen the Ukrainian Armed Forces.

He expressed his support for Ukrainian military personnel who are defending the independence of their country on the front lines.

"Our negotiations are aimed at the future support of Ukraine. Bulgaria, along with other partner countries, will stand with your people. Ukraine deserves to be free and independent," Stoyanov said.

Both parties also discussed important issues of the accounting system and transparency of military aid.

Stoyanov, at the head of the Bulgarian delegation, also visited Irpin, where he saw what atrocities the Russian occupiers can commit. In addition, he attended an exhibition of destroyed Russian equipment on Mykhailivska Square in Kyiv and also laid flowers at the wall of memory of the soldiers who died for the freedom and independence of Ukraine.

The Parliament of Bulgaria on Friday, December 16, voted to approve in the second and final reading an agreement between Bulgaria and Ukraine on the supply of weapons, equipment and ammunition to Ukraine.