NATO to continue aid to Ukraine based on its needs

Visiting Bulgaria with a delegation of permanent representatives from NATO member countries, Geoana observed the "Iron Strike-2023" exercise, held under NATO auspices at the Novo Selo Land Forces Base, alongside Prime Minister Nikolay Denkov.

In his statement to the press, Geoana said, "Russia's dangerous actions pose a serious threat to the security of the Black Sea region," and added:

"NATO and its allies have stepped up surveillance and reconnaissance efforts in the Black Sea using maritime patrol aircraft, AWACS aircraft, and unmanned aerial vehicles. I am very pleased that Bulgaria, together with Turkey and Romania, is cooperating in efforts to search for floating mines in the Black Sea."

Stating that Russia will try to use winter conditions as an "advantage" in the war against Ukraine, Geoana said, "Winter is coming. We must continue to give the Ukrainians what they need to remain strong on the battlefield and to provide them with a stronger position at the negotiating table."

Expressing his satisfaction with Bulgaria's commitment to allocate at least 2 percent of its gross domestic product to defense spending in the coming years, Geoana said, "This will translate into more fighter jets, patrol boats, and infantry fighting vehicles. It will increase Bulgaria's security and strengthen NATO."