Bulgaria plays a vital role in supporting Ukraine: One-third of military aid comes from the neighboring country
In the context of global support for Ukraine in its fight against Russian aggression, Bulgaria emerges as a key supplier of weapons and ammunition to Kyiv.
According to Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, over one-third of the military equipment received by Ukraine since the outbreak of the full-scale war has been supplied by Bulgaria.
She emphasized that Bulgaria has a rich history in defense industry and that its defense sector is among the largest within the EU relative to its GDP.
Bulgarian enterprises produce significant quantities of ammunition and explosives, which are crucial in aiding Ukraine’s defense efforts and its fight for sovereignty.Von der Leyen also announced Bulgaria’s plans to significantly expand its defense capabilities, targeting an increase in ammunition production to two million shells by the end of 2025.
This expansion is expected to generate over a thousand new jobs in the country.
Moreover, she highlighted Bulgaria’s active contributions not only to Ukraine’s security but also to the overall stability of Europe, including the upcoming opening of two Rheinmetall factories, one located at the VMZ site, which will further strengthen the national defense sector.Additionally, the Netherlands is currently sending Patriot and NASAMS missile systems to Poland — not directly to Ukraine, but as part of European efforts to protect the continent and support Kyiv.
The European Union continues to work closely on security guarantees for Ukraine, with upcoming high-level meetings planned in Paris to discuss further steps toward strengthening Ukraine’s defense capabilities.
Denmark has also announced a €1.4 billion investment to develop a weapons manufacturing facility, potentially supporting Ukraine’s armed forces in the future.